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If you’re planning to apply to grad school, one of the top items on your to-do list is likely getting letters of recommendation.

But who? How? When? This part of the application process can generate anxiety for even the most confident grad school hopeful.

Don’t worry, we've got your back. With input from admissions experts at the University of Washington, we’ve compiled a list of eight tips for asking for — and receiving — great letters of recommendation. Follow this simple formula and get recommendations that will help your grad school application land in the “yes” pile.

1. Do Your Research

First, read your program’s requirements carefully. Graduate programs typically require you to submit two or three letters of recommendation with your application, but there are variations, depending on the school and type of program.

2. Plan Ahead

Remember to give your recommenders plenty of time to write their letters — a couple months of lead time is not too much! This is especially true if you are asking them to write multiple letters for you (for different programs).

Besides being considerate, giving your recommenders an early heads-up also leaves them ample time to produce a strong letter. If you ask someone a week before the deadline, it shows a (possibly annoying) lack of planning on your part. Plus, it’s possible they won’t be able to turn it around in that timeframe.

3. Identify the Right Recommenders

You should know your recommenders well and have a good working relationship with them. They need to be able to speak to things like your work ethic, professionalism, writing ability, lab and/or research skills, readiness for grad school and what you can contribute to the program.

While former professors are an obvious choice, don’t assume all your recommendations need to come from that category. “That’s a common misconception,” says Crystal Galván, a graduate adviser in the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences at University of Washington Bothell. “A campus staff member or program director that you worked with directly might be a great choice, too.”

What if you’ve been out of school for a while and don’t have any academic contacts? If that’s the case, you can often substitute professional references for academic ones, says Galván. But explain this choice in your statement of purpose, and don’t be afraid to reach out to the graduate program for any special instructions.

Just like for academic recommendations, make sure your professional recommenders know you and your strengths well. It might be tempting to ask someone like your company’s CEO, but that approach can backfire if they can’t provide specifics.

“It should be someone who knows your work performance and can talk about it — whether that’s a supervisor, a peer or even a client,” says Randell Hernandez, who has served as the director of admissions for the Executive MBA program at the UW for the last 15 years. “For an MBA program, for example, I think current and former managers are probably the best sources for recommendations.”

4. Communicate Intentionally

Once you have your list of possible recommenders, it’s time to reach out. Schedule a meeting (virtual or in-person) to discuss your request.

Seem unnecessary? Galván explains why it’s a vital step. In this meeting you can:

• Discuss more fully why you’re interested in graduate school in general, and these programs in particular.
• Explain the process and the timeline, and talk about next steps.
• Open up the lines of communication and answer any questions they might have on the spot.

If you can’t meet one-on-one, email works too, according to Galván. But she also suggests that you pay attention to how they respond to your request.

“If the person hesitates when you ask them for a letter, then it’s probably better to ask someone else,” she says.

Hernandez agrees. “The challenge with letters of recommendation is that once you ask the person to do it, you lose control of the process,” he says. “So I always advise applicants to choose their recommenders with care.”

5. Prepare a Portfolio

Whew! Once your recommenders are on board, the next step is to supply them with materials that will make their task easier: a digital or physical portfolio.

The portfolio should include copies of:

• Key application materials, including program descriptions and deadlines
• Your personal statement
• Your resume and/or curriculum vitae (CV)
• A writing sample
• Your unofficial transcripts
• Anything else that could help your recommender write a strong letter

If you want to handle this task digitally, a good option is to place the materials in a dedicated folder on a service like Google Drive, OneDrive or Dropbox.

6. Explain Any Academic Dips or Gaps

Everyone understands that life isn’t always predictable. If you’ve experienced hardship — such as the death of a family member — that has impacted either your academic record or your career trajectory, it could be helpful to let your recommender know about it. This allows them to help explain the circumstances.

“For students who had a difficult quarter or semester (or two), it’s helpful for admissions committees to learn about the reasons why, especially as many graduate programs are moving to more holistic admission processes,” Galván says. “Your recommender can help address these gaps in their letter and serve as your advocate.”

7. Follow Up

It’s OK to follow up with your recommenders as the deadline approaches (these are busy people, after all). Many graduate programs give you the option of sending a reminder directly through the application portal, according to both Galván and Hernandez.

“Our portal at the University of Washington has that feature embedded in it,” Galván says. “It’s nice because it allows you to avoid that uncomfortable conversation if you feel anxious about the situation.”

Email or phone reminders are fine too. Better to risk being a little bothersome than to have a recommender completely forget about your request!

8. Remember to Say Thanks

Good manners count! Don’t forget to send your recommenders a thank-you note after they submit the letter and your application is complete. This gesture goes a long way toward maintaining a good relationship, and it’s quite possible you’ll have to call on this network for further help down the road.

And be sure to let your recommenders know the outcome of your application! Even if you weren’t accepted, they’ll appreciate the follow-up.

Take a Deep Breath, Then Move Forward

If you follow all these tips, you can relax — you’ve done your part. The rest is up to the recommender.

Want to discover more helpful content about grad school? Check out our go-to guide for applying to graduate school for links to additional articles.

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David Hirning

David Hirning is an accomplished writer and editor with extensive experience in both tech and higher education. He began his career in journalism, then spent over a decade as an editor at Microsoft, where he worked on Encarta Encyclopedia and related reference products.

David worked for six years as a full-time writer and content manager at UW Professional & Continuing Education. He also operated his own editorial consulting business, with stints at leading companies like Amazon and Expedia, and taught English for two years in Costa Rica.

David has served as an instructor for the UW Certificate in Editing program and as a teaching assistant for the UW Certificate in Storytelling & Content Strategy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Stanford University and a Certificate in Literary Fiction from the UW.

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MLIS Application Materials

Mlis application for graduate study.

The online application for Autumn 2024 will open on Sept. 15, 2023. Visit the Application for Graduate Study and create a log-in ID and password.

Retain your log-in ID and password, as you will need them to:

• Save a partially completed application
• Pay the application fee ($85 payable by debit or credit card)
• Monitor the submission of recommendations and test scores (if applicable)
• Check the status of your application

Once you have paid the fee, you will be unable to make further changes to your application with the exception of letters of recommendation, contact information and transcript updates.

Application Materials

Personal statement, diversity statement, short answer response.

• Recommendations

Resume or Curriculum Vitae

• Program Mode Preference

Transcripts

• Extenuating Circumstances  (optional)
• Scholarship Information  (optional)

Official GRE scores (optional)

• English Language Proficiency for Non-Native English Speakers

Note: Submitting GRE scores is not required.

Review and/or consideration of incomplete applications or late materials is at the discretion of the MLIS admissions committee. If application materials are missing due to circumstances beyond the applicant's control, the committee will take that into consideration and make its judgment based on the information available.

The MLIS graduate program desires individuals who have a unique passion and vision for their future in the library and information science field. In your statement of purpose, please list the area(s) of study that most interest you, and discuss how the UW iSchool MLIS program will help you meet your professional goals.

Please respond in approximately 350 words or less.

If you are not familiar with the variety of academic options available to our students, you may want to reference the career pathways on our website.

Diversity is a core value and foundational concept in the Information School. The MLIS program seeks to create a community of students that is inclusive of underrepresented populations and in service to underserved communities. How would you contribute to these efforts? (You may want to consider the iSchool diversity statement when writing your response.)

Think about current trends and issues in the library and information science field. Select one and briefly summarize the topic. Then analyze its significance and implications in the following ways:

• For you as an information professional.
• For the impact it will/does have on an organization where you are interested in working.

Please respond in approximately 500 words or less. If you choose to use citations, they will not contribute to the word count.

• If you are less familiar with the field, you can do some preliminary research on current trends and issues by referencing websites like this: http://www.ala.org/tools/future/trends . 
• If you are not sure how to get started, visit your local library and ask a librarian.
• We are looking for your thoughts on trends and issues, not a citation-heavy research paper. If you do include citations, you may use the style of your choice.

The field of library and information science requires flexibility, adaptability and perseverance. Give an example of a situation when you overcame an unexpected challenge.

Please respond in approximately 100 words or less.

Recommendations (2 Required, 3 Recommended)

Enter the names and contact information for two to three recommenders into the Application for Graduate Study. These individuals will be sent an e-mail prompt with instructions for submitting their recommendation online.

Request recommendations from people who know you well and who are able to comment on your academic competence, ability to engage in graduate study, and potential for future success in the library and information science professions, or who can comment on your employment experience. Unless academic- or work-related, do not submit recommendations from family members, clergy, or friends.

Two recommendations are required and this application component will be considered complete once two recommendations have been received. Providing information for three recommenders is highly encouraged, but not required. Three recommendations provide the review committee varied viewpoints from your professional and academic background to take into consideration. 

Make sure to give the recommenders time to submit the application by your selected application deadline. You are able to monitor if letters have been received. Activated means they were sent to the recommender but not yet completed. Received means they were completed and received by the admission team. You are able to resend letters as well as add new recommenders if needed. You are able to submit your application before having the recommendations be listed as received. 

• Test scores and letters of recommendation have a two-day grace period beyond the application deadline for submission. Kindly urge your recommenders to submit the letters at their earliest convenience to ensure the completeness of your application for the given round.

Instructions for recommenders

Thank you for agreeing to provide a recommendation for an applicant to the MLIS program. While there are no requirements or specific format that we ask you to adhere to, we are happy to provide the following guidelines:

• Don't write a standard letter that contains basic information.
• Only write a letter if you can provide concrete examples and detailed feedback.
• We are looking for evidence of potential success in the program and in the field, after graduation.
• Share 1-2 stories that tell us something specific that the applicant has accomplished.
• For academic recommenders, discuss how the applicant would do in a rigorous graduate program — specifically academics and/or research.
• For professional references, discuss examples of the applicant's leadership, innovation and/or creativity
• For those in the library and/or information world, it is OK to use industry-specific jargon and acronyms.
• We often receive inquiries about Question 2 in the online recommendation system - "2. In making this evaluation, what group are you using as a basis for comparison?" It is intended to provide context to your relationship with the applicant. For instance, are they one of 1,000 undergraduate students who you've taught over the past 10 years or are they one of 10 employees you supervise on a daily basis? Please know, this is a standard question in the application system and we (MLIS Admissions Committee) are not able to remove or alter it. Therefore, if you would prefer not to answer it or if your relationship with the applicant does not lend itself to this type of question, please feel free to enter "n/a" in that section. This type of answer will have no negative impact on the applicant.
• Make sure and submit the letter by the application deadline or at minimum two days after for Round Consideration.

If you have any questions or have difficulty using the online application system, please contact our office at [email protected] .

Upload a PDF of your résumé or curriculum vitae. There is no preferred formatting or specific requirements that need to be met. However, your submission should include the following information, as applicable:

*We have noticed that the application for Autumn 2024 has a mistake and lists a word limit. Please ignore this and upload your Resume or Curriculum Vitae as is with no preferred formatting or word limit.

• Academic history (including institution, degree, dates of attendance)
• Professional experience (including employer, position title, and dates of employment)
• Involvement with volunteer, community, and/or diversity-related activities including the organization, position title, and dates of service
• Honors, awards, publications, and presentations
• Research experience

Program Delivery Mode Preference

Select your program mode preference from the dropdown menu in Question 4 on the Program Information page in the Application for Graduate Study. The five options are:

• Residential program only
• Prefer residential, but would accept online
• Either program
• Prefer online, but would accept residential
• Online program only

Your preference indicates that you have considered the program modes thoroughly and will accept the results of your selection.

Applicants will also confirm their Program Delivery Mode preference in the body of the Application for Graduate Study.

In the Report Prior Schools section of the Application for Graduate Study, list all schools (colleges, universities and institutions) where you have earned collegiate-level credit.

In the Submit Transcripts section of the application, upload a transcript for each school listed.

Each transcript should be complete, legible and include the following: name of the institution, name of the student, dates of attendance, courses taken, grades/marks/credits earned and be organized by term (quarters, semesters or trimesters).

Please observe the following guidelines:

• All transcripts should be submitted through the Application for Graduate Study. Please do not mail (or email) transcripts to the iSchool unless specifically directed to do so.
• Unofficial transcript from the school, often a PDF
• Official transcript that the applicant scans and uploads into the Application for Graduate Study
• Information from an online system or dashboard (Applicants are welcome to copy/paste into a Word document. As long as it is complete and legible, we are happy to accept it.)
• Degree audits cannot be accepted in place of a transcript as they are not a comprehensive summary of the coursework a student has attempted.
• Applicants should not submit transcripts that they have typed out themselves. Any documentation that is submitted should originate from the degree-granting institution.
• Foreign transcripts: if not in English, must be accompanied by an English translation .
• Certificate coursework: You only need to provide a transcript for certificate coursework if you earned academic credit in the process of earning the certificate. If you earned continuing education units (CEUs), a transcript does not need to be submitted.
• Study abroad (credits earned at a school outside the U.S.): Please refer to instructions for foreign transcripts.
• Study abroad (credits earned at a school inside the U.S.): Transcripts that fall into this category should be submitted as any other domestic transcripts.
• Transcripts from a clearinghouse or automated service may not be accessible when submitted through the Application for Graduate Study. As such, it is best to avoid using these services, if possible.
• In order to submit electronic transcripts, the applicant should have them sent to themselves and then upload them into the Application for Graduate Study.

Please note: The MLIS admissions committee retains the right to require that official transcripts be submitted for review at any time; during the application process or after admissions decisions have been made.

Applicants admitted to the program who accept the offer of admission will be required to submit official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions to the Graduate School.

Extenuating Circumstances (optional)

If there are extenuating circumstances, not addressed in other sections of your application, related to your academic transcript, resume, or other facets of your application that you would like the admissions committee to consider, please describe them. Please limit your response to 200 words.

Scholarship Information (optional)

All applicants are automatically considered for a limited number of iSchool merit-based scholarships. If there is additional information you would like to provide the committee that you feel is relevant to your being considered for a scholarship, please let us know. (Please limit this response to 500 words.)

In the past, we have had specific scholarship money for new students who are employed by the state of Washington, first-generation college students or who are active duty military or have veteran status. Please indicate if you fall into one or more of these categories. This information will not be used during the decision-making process. It will only be used for scholarship consideration after admissions decisions have been made.

**Responding to this question does not guarantee that you will receive a scholarship.**

Though not part of our standard requirements, applicants with a lower GPA are encouraged to submit official GRE scores. If it is necessary to enter a low GPA petition with the Graduate School, having submitted official GRE scores may be beneficial and support the petition. When reporting scores, please use ETS report code 4854, no department code needed.

Note: The MLIS admissions committee does not use GRE scores when making admissions decisions.

English Language Proficiency Requirement for Non-Native English Speakers

Proficiency in English is required for graduate study at the University of Washington. Therefore, every applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of citizenship) must demonstrate proficiency with the English language. (See UW Policy 3.2 for Graduate School policies.)

Non-native English speakers will indicate how they will fulfill the requirement in the application. The options are:

• submitted to the UW with ETS code 4854; use department code 99
• submitted to the UW with organization code 365
• Official Duolingo scores — minimum score of 105
• No additional documentation is required. We will use the transcript submitted with the application to verify that the requirement has been fulfilled.
• We will accept a notation directly on the transcript or a separate document issued by the institution.

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NOTE: Professional programs at the UW do not use this online application. Please consult their websites for admissions information and application instructions. School of Law (JD) | School of Dentistry (DDS) | School of Pharmacy (PharmD) | School of Medicine (MD)

Before You Begin

Review the information below for important tips to help you complete and manage your application successfully.  

If you have previously reviewed this page, you can go to the appropriate application.

The Graduate School is transitioning to a new admissions system. The admissions system you’ll be using depends on when you plan to begin your studies. 

For admission to programs beginning in Autumn 2024 and beyond

Please use our  new admissions system  to start your application.  

For admission to programs beginning in Autumn 2023, Winter 2024, Spring 2024, and Summer 2024

New applicants should  create a profile  and returning applicants can  log into your account . 

Please note: Not all programs open for admissions at the same time. To see when your intended program is open for admissions, go to the  new admissions system , start a new application for the program you are applying to and then go the Program Requirements page and verify your intended program’s Application Open date. 

New Applicants

Please use our new admissions system to start your application.

Go to the new application system

New applicants should create a profile in the application system.

Create a profile

Returning Applicants

Please use our new admissions system to log into your application.  

Log into your account

If you already have a profile, you can log in to your account to

• Update your applicant profile
• Create a new application
• Edit or submit an existing application(s)
• receipt of letters of recommendation
• receipt of test scores
• a decision on your application
• if you are offered admission, your student number and personal access code (PAC)
• if you are requesting a F-1 or J-1 visa, steps to obtain a visa application 

Application Fee 

If you want to apply to more than one program, you must submit an application and pay the fee for each program. The  nonrefundable application fee is $85.00 (USD) or $75.00 for Graduate Non-Matriculated applications , subject to change without notice. The fee can be paid only online, using a MasterCard or Visa credit/debit cards.

Fee Waivers

Some students may also be eligible to have their application fee waived.

More about Application Fee Waivers

Contact the Graduate School at  [email protected]  or 206.685.2630. The University of Washington is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities.

To request disability accommodation in the admission and application process, contact the  Disability Services Office  at 206.543.6450 (Voice), 206.543.6452 (TTY), 206.685.7264 (FAX), or  [email protected] .

Tips for writing strong letters of recommendation

Thank you for supporting UW students by taking the time to write stellar letters of recommendation. Whether the letters are for jobs, graduate schools, or scholarship applications, the support of faculty and staff is essential to students’ success.

Know when to say “No”

There are students for whom you simply cannot write an effective letter of recommendation. Save them from the mistake of asking the wrong person! If any of the following fits your situation, it is in the student’s best interest for you to decline to write the letter.

Please say “No” if:

• You feel that you cannot be emphatically positive in support of the student;
• You recall little more about the student than the recorded grades;
• You think that you are not the best person to write a letter;
• The student approaches you in a highly unprofessional manner;
• You simply do not have the time or material to write a good letter for the student.

Instead, provide the student with guidance on finding a more appropriate reference.

Writing a strong letter

Unfortunately, many scholarship selection processes are based on paper applications only with no opportunity for applicants to meet with the foundation in a personal interview. Therefore, the application must be as detailed and complete as possible, including the letters of recommendation. Your letter will provide the context that selection committees use to compare and contrast your student with other applicants.

Recommenders are typically asked to evaluate the candidate based on the selection criteria for the scholarship. Though each scholarship will have unique selection criteria, there are a few things to consider and/or include in any letter:

• Frank, concrete details providing evidence of the qualities you discuss.
• The criteria on which you base your judgments.
• How the student meets your criteria.
• Brief information about you and your work as context for your comments.
• Although it is the student’s responsibility to select a good variety of letter writers, you might ask the student who else is writing and what the other writers are likely to discuss. This will ensure that you avoid repetition and provide a comprehensive picture of the student.
• If you are called upon to write letters for two or more applicants for the same scholarship, be sure your letters for each are as unique as possible. Two letters that are too alike will not help either student.
• Although we encourage students to provide their recommenders with detailed information about themselves, the scholarship, and their proposed projects or courses of study, recommenders should not rely too heavily on these materials. Students will likely give the same information to each recommender, which could lead to multiple recommendation letters that sound the same.

Letters can be anywhere from 1.5 to 3 pages in length, single-spaced. Please address letters to the individual who chairs the scholarship committee (if known), or to the committee as a whole (“Dear Marshall Scholarship Committee”). Please use department or university letterhead and close with your signature and full title (e.g., “Assistant Professor of Anthropology” rather than just “Assistant Professor”).

The Undergraduate Scholarship Office is happy to review drafts of recommendation letters for faculty. If you are asked to write for one of the major national scholarship competitions (Truman, Goldwater, Marshall, Mitchell, Rhodes, Udall, Beinecke, Jack Kent Cooke, etc.), a USO staff member will contact you in advance to provide you with specific details and guidance related to that scholarship.

Advice from national selection panelists

The following are responses to an informal survey by Mary Tolar of Truman Scholarship selection panel members asking: What do you like to see in a letter of recommendation, and what leaves you cold?

What helps:

• Provide specific information about the applicant —information that committee members can use to determine the applicant’s strengths and that will help shape an interview.
• Provide some context of how the writer knows the applicant —class, research, work, civic, or other context—and for what period of time the writer has known the applicant.
• Show that the writer knows the applicant personally.  For example, incidents or actions that are unique to this relationship are more credible than information that could be gathered from the resume.
• Point to specific examples of what the applicant has done.  For example, if the student wrote a brilliant paper, mention its topic and why it stood out. If the student did outstanding work in another regard, explain the nature of this work and its particular strengths, especially as they relate to the goals of the scholarship.
• Discuss why the applicant would be a strong candidate for the specific scholarship.  How does this candidate exemplify the personal qualities or selection criteria specified by the scholarship? Specific examples are crucial.
• Indicate what particularly qualifies the student for the course of study or project the applicant is proposing.  Such letters provide the links between past performance and what is proposed.
• Place the student in a larger context.  For example, a letter could compare the present applicant to others who have applied for similar honors in the past or who have succeeded in such competitions. If possible, the student can be compared to graduate students or professionals. Quantitative remarks and percentages may be useful: “among the three best students I have taught,” “top 5% of students in my 20 years of teaching.” The strongest comparisons have the widest reach: “among the best in my x years of teaching” is stronger than “the best in his/her section.”
• Draw on the remarks of colleagues for supporting evidence or the acknowledgement of specific strengths.  Letters from professors may also draw on the comments from teaching assistants who may have worked more closely with the applicants.

What hurts:

• Letters that are too short and/or fail to provide specific examples or instances of points mentioned.
• Generic letters or letters for another purpose sent without regard to the specific scholarship, course of study, or project proposed.
• Letters merely summarizing information available elsewhere in the application or only presenting the student’s grade or rank in a class.
• Letters focusing too much on the context of how the writer knows the applicant (descriptions of the course or its approaches) and not sufficiently on the student and his or her accomplishments.
• Letters consisting largely of unsupported praise. Kind words that do not give committees a strong sense of how applicants have distinguished themselves are not helpful.
• Letters damning with faint praise. It is not helpful to say that a student did what might be expected (completed all the reading assignments) or that point to qualities (punctuality, enthusiasm, presentability) not germane to the scholarship.
• Letters focusing on experiences that happened quite a few years ago. Even letters from writers with long-standing relationships with the applicant need to be as current and forward-looking as possible.
• Letters that may be read as implying criticism (beware of back-handed compliments) or whose criticisms might be taken to indicate stronger reservations than stated. Letters should be honest—and honest criticism, if generously presented, can enhance the force of a letter—but committees take critical comments very seriously. It is best to be cautious when making critical remarks and to avoid any sense of indirection.

With thanks to Mary Tolar, Truman Scholarship Foundation, and Mark Bauer, Yale University.

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Students admitted to the UW now have until June 1 to commit, a result of FAFSA delays. We anticipate that financial aid offers will be sent in late April or early May.

Guidelines for special admission by appeal

The University’s admission policies comply with Washington State regulations and faculty-authorized requirements. It is the responsibility of the Office of Admissions to apply these standards consistently and fairly. The faculty recognizes, however, that exceptions should be granted occasionally for students in unusual situations. Please review our appeal process below.

NOTE : If you applied as a transfer student, please use the transfer appeal form found here .

Generally, applicants appeal if they have significant new academic and personal information or extraordinary circumstances that were not included in their original application. All eligible appeals will receive a review of updated information, transcripts and the appeal statement, in addition to a review of the original application.

Denied applicants

Incomplete application, file closed.

• Who cannot appeal ?
• What are my chances ?
• What issues should my appeal address ?
• May I submit letters of recommendation ?
• How and when will I be notified ?
• How do I request a disability accommodation ?
• How do I appeal ?

Who can appeal?

Only applicants who were denied admission to the UW or those whose file was closed due to incomplete or missing information may appeal.

Any applicant denied admission to the UW may appeal. Please note that this includes students who are not offered admission off the waitlist. If you are not offered admission off the waitlist, you may submit your appeal AFTER the waitlist is closed.

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Freshmen whose applications were closed because they did not submit missing items that were requested by the Office of Admissions can appeal to have their application re-opened. If your application is re-opened, it will be reviewed for an admission decision. Applicants will be required to provide missing items with the appeal form. Please visit the Missing Items Portal to see which items are required to complete your appeal.

Need assistance? Direct your Incomplete, file closed appeal questions to:

• Freshman applicant: [email protected]
• International freshman applicant: [email protected]

Who cannot appeal?

• Students admitted to the UW but not selected for direct entry to their first-choice major may not appeal. This includes the College of Engineering, the Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, the Foster School of Business and all other first-choice majors.
• Students invited to the waitlist may not appeal until the waitlist is closed.

What are my chances?

Keep in mind that your application was already carefully reviewed. Very few decisions are overturned on appeal, and we encourage you to explore your educational options .

What issues should my appeal address?

Your appeal should contain significant and compelling new information, which may include extenuating circumstances, not contained in your original application. To clarify, factors such as improved senior year grades, new awards, a change in academic interest or additional activities alone would not be considered significant and compelling new information.

May I submit letters of recommendation?

No, letters of recommendation are not considered as part of your admission application or the appeal process.

How and when will I be notified?

Complete appeals received by April 10 will receive a decision by May 1.

Appeals received after April 10 may be notified after May 1. Please allow up to 4 weeks to receive your appeal decision.

Appeal decisions are sent via email.

Disability accommodation

To request disability accommodation in the appeal process,  contact the Office of Admissions .

How do I appeal?

• Your appeal should be clear and concise in presenting your case for admission.
• The body of your appeal should explain your reason for seeking reconsideration.
• You will be required to upload an updated/current, high school transcript. Include a college transcript if you are enrolled in college coursework.
• The Office of Admissions does not interview appellants or consider in-person appeals. Meeting with admissions staff will not affect the outcome of an appeal.
• Complete the eligibility checklist below to access the appeal form.

Am I eligible to appeal?

YOU MAY APPEAL ONLY IF you were denied admission to the UW or your application was closed and you now have new, significant and compelling personal or academic information to provide.

• I was denied.
• My file was closed due to an incomplete application.
• You are eligible to appeal. Begin on the appeal form (UW NetID required).

The Foster MBA Program selects individuals with the highest potential for achievement in the management profession—those who have demonstrated the capacity for high-quality academic work, who possess strong written and verbal communication skills, and who will contribute to the diversity of the student body and the ranks of professional leaders.

Apply Now- coming soon             Request Information

2024 Application Deadlines and Notification Dates

The Foster Full-time MBA Program offers one intake per year—each fall. You may apply to any of the below deadlines, however, you may only submit one application per academic year.

**Final Deadline for International Applicants

Application Requirements

Each application requires the following:

Online Application Profile

• Required Essays (2), Optional Essays (2)

Letters of Recommendation (2)

• Official GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition or GRE score report or completed “Test Optional Summary of Qualifications”
• Transcripts from a completed four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university or the equivalent

Proof of English Language Proficiency

• Video Interview Submission (Instructions are emailed to applicants 3-5 days after the application round deadline)

Non-Refundable Application Fee ($85)

Click on each heading to learn more about each requirement.

The Full-time MBA Application is now open. To get started, click the apply now button below, go to the “New Applicants” section, and select the option to “Go to the new application system” under “For admission to programs beginning in Autumn 2024 and beyond.” From here, create your online application profile by selecting the “First-time Users” option.

Please note that our Autumn 2024 application is on a new application system. If you’ve started an application or applied in the past, you will need to create a new user account and a new application in the new system.

Once in the application system, applicants should follow the prompts to start a new application. After creating an application, ensure that you follow these steps:

• Under “Program Selection” select “Graduate”
• Select search “By Campus”
• Select “Seattle” under filter by campus
• Select “Business Administration – Foster School of Business – Seattle Full-time MBA”

You may save your information and return as often as you’d like until you submit your completed application. All aspects of your application, including the fulfillment of these requirements, are subject to verification.

Required Essays (2), Optional Essay (2)

Two essays are required and must be uploaded to your online application. The first optional essay allows you to tell us more about yourself, or to explain any areas of concern. The second optional essay allows you to share ways you have been involved with diversity, equity and inclusion in your professional or personal life, or within your community.

For all essays, we ask that you add your full name and the title of the essay at the top of each page. We encourage you to select a professional font, use a 10- or 12-point font size, and double-space your text. Please ensure you carefully proofread your essays before submitting them.

Essay 1 : Post-MBA Plans (750 words maximum) Tell us your ideas about what lies ahead in your career. What are the gaps or deficiencies currently preventing you from pursuing these potential career paths? How do you plan to use your time in the Foster MBA program to fill these gaps and advance your career?

Essay 2 : Personal Resilience Essay (500 words maximum) Resilience is one of the most important values of a successful Foster student. Tell us about what resilience means to you and share some of the ways that you have demonstrated resilience in overcoming personal or professional challenges. How do you anticipate showing resilience during your time as an MBA candidate?

Essay 3 : Optional essay (500 words maximum) Include this essay if you have additional information you believe would be helpful to the admissions committee in considering your application.

Essay 4 : Optional Diversity, Equity & Inclusion essay (500 words maximum) At the Foster School of Business, we embrace diversity as one of the foundations of both successful business strategy and a world-class educational experience. We share the University’s dedication to promoting the understanding and appreciation of human differences, and the constructive expression of ideas. We welcome you to share some of the ways you have practiced inclusion, promoted equity or supported the advancement of underrepresented groups.

*No separate scholarship application is required to be considered for Full-time MBA merit scholarships. However, we recommend that if you would like to be considered for the ROMBA Fellowship or Forté Fellowship, you indicate your qualifications and interest in these scholarships through this essay question.

Outline your work experience in reverse chronological order. Be sure to include company name, a brief description of the organization (or a web address), your job title, and detailed information about your responsibilities and achievements.

Feel free to use up to three pages for your resume, and include all significant work experience since graduating from high school. Include educational background as well as your activities and community involvement.

Two recommendation letters are required as part of your application; however, you are permitted to submit up to three. Preferably, recommendations should be provided by professional contacts rather than academic or personal contacts. You may designate your recommenders at any time after starting your application. When you designate your recommenders in your online application profile, recommenders will receive an email directing them to the online recommendation form.

Your recommendations should be submitted by the application deadline for the round you are applying to. You can use the online application system to send your recommender a reminder email as needed. When your recommender has submitted the recommendation, you will receive a confirmation email.

The recommendation consists of two parts: a set of short-answer questions and a written assessment. In the written assessment your recommender will be asked to write about your strengths, discuss areas where you could improve, discuss your leadership abilities, interpersonal skills, motivation and initiative and comment on your accomplishments, managerial potential, and other personal qualities.

Standardized Test Requirements

All MBA applicants are encouraged to take the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT), GMAT Focus Edition or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Applicants also have the option to apply “Test Optional” to the Full-time MBA Program without a standardized test score.

Applying with a GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition or GRE Score

For the GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition and GRE, all sub-scores including the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) score are evaluated. Scores should indicate a strong aptitude for business studies. You can review score averages on our Class Profile .

GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition and GRE exams are offered year-round and can be taken multiple times. Tests are available at in-person testing centers as well as online. Scores are valid for five years. There is no departmental preference for the GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition or GRE exam.

Take the test as early as possible to allow time to re-test if necessary. The GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition or GRE must be completed by the application deadline, and official scores should be reported by the deadline. If you have taken a test more than once, the admissions committee will use your highest overall total score to evaluate your application. Please note, we do not accept the Executive Assessment test for admission to the Full-time MBA Program.

Applying Test Optional

All applicants who choose to apply Test Optional agree to complete the “Test Optional Summary of Qualifications” in the application questions section of the online application. Applicants will submit a response to these questions in lieu of submitting a GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition or GRE score.

Please detail the specific evidence in your academic and/or professional experience that supports your analytical and quantitative preparedness for success in the program. (150 words maximum)

Please review the Test Optional FAQ section for a complete overview of the requirements for applying Test Optional and crafting a competitive application.

Transcripts & GPA Reporting

You must have completed the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university to be considered for admission. Transcripts are required for all undergraduate and graduate-level institutions attended. You are not required to complete academic courses in any particular topics to be eligible for admission. An academic background in business is not required. Consistency in achievement is considered, but more weight is given to the last two years of study and courses within your academic area of focus.

Required Format for All Transcripts Do not send official transcripts to our office via mail. Scan copies of your original transcripts in PDF file format and upload them to the online application. Make sure to include any transcript keys that describe the institution’s grading scale. These are typically found on the back side of most domestic transcripts.

Self-generated online grade reports or versions that have been cut and pasted into a Word document will not be accepted.

The following information must be on all transcripts:

• Full name of applicant (former names are acceptable if indicated on application)
• Name of degree-granting institution
• Title(s) of academic degree(s) awarded
• Dates of enrollment, including date of graduation/degree conferral
• Names of individual courses
• Grades, marks, or ratings of individual courses
• International transcripts must include an official English translations
• Both marks sheets and degree statements are required, if applicable

Please note: Official transcripts sent directly from institutions are required only after an offer of admission is accepted by the applicant.

GPA Requirements Applicants should review our Class Profile for GPA averages for admitted students. Although Foster does not have a minimum requirement, a GPA of 3.0 (B) or better is generally the standard we look for in a competitive candidate. We holistically review all aspects of your application when making an admissions decision. Should your GPA fall below a 3.0 average, we closely evaluate your performance on the GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition or GRE, as well as other aspects of your application, to assess your ability to succeed academically in our program. If you have specific concerns related to your undergraduate GPA, please contact one of our admissions counselors to discuss.

Reporting your Grade Point Average The Graduate School application asks applicants to report their Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 0.0 – 4.0 scale for the last 90 quarter or 60 semester graded credits. Specific instructions are provided on the Graduate School Application for converting and calculating your GPA if your university was not on such a system, and for converting from an international grading system to a 4.0 scale. Please read and follow the instructions carefully for converting your GPA to a 4.0 scale to complete this question. If you’d like to assess your GPA ahead of applying, the application refers applicants to the Foreign Credits website, and to use the GPA calculator for this process.

If you attended a university that does not grade courses or provide a GPA, check the “No” box to indicate that institution did not provide letter or numeric grades when entering your academic history details.

Proficiency in English is required for admission to a graduate program at the University of Washington. If your native language is not English, you are required to demonstrate English language proficiency in one of the following ways:

• Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or from an institution in Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, or the United Kingdom.
• Official documentation from the institution verifying that your undergraduate degree is from an institution (in a country other than those listed above) where all instruction is in English. The undergraduate degree must be equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Documentation must be presented to the University of Washington Graduate School. The Graduate School will determine grade equivalency and validate foreign transcripts.
• Complete an English Language Proficiency Exam. Refer to the below table for accepted exams and score requirements.

Most test scores are valid for two years. Applicants with scores below the minimum score requirements are highly encouraged to retake the exam before submitting an application. Official test scores must be sent directly to the University of Washington Graduate School by the application deadline.

Video Interview

All applicants will be asked to submit a video interview, and will receive an email 3-5 business days after the application deadline to which they applied with instructions on recording the video interview. The video interview allows us to get to know you better and to assess your communication skills and your ability to think on your feet as we review your application and consider your candidacy.

Once applicants receive the video interview invitation via e-mail, they will have approximately one week days to complete this requirement. Applicants can test their video and sound , answer practice video interview questions, and ask for technical support if needed within the video interview system before recording their video interview. The email instructions will include the deadline to submit the video interview, applicants must complete this requirement in order for their application to remain under review.

Applicants will be contacted if they are selected for an admissions interview later in the application review process.

A non-refundable application fee of $85 must be paid by credit card through the online application system.

Consortium Applicants

As a partner school of The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, Foster welcomes your application. If you plan to apply through The Consortium, please do not create a UW Online Application profile. Instead, proceed directly to the The Consortium website to start your Consortium application profile .

We look forward to reviewing your application once received from The Consortium and will communicate with all Consortium applicants via email while your application is under review by the Foster admissions committee.

Please review our Consortium FAQ for information on the application process and timeline, as well as answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from Consortium applicants. If you have any questions regarding your Consortium application, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] .

Here’s what you can expect after you have submitted your application.

Admission Interview

Admission interviews are by invitation only. Invitations are sent by email to select applicants within 3-5 weeks of the application deadline to which you applied. Interviews are conducted by Foster MBA Admissions staff and the interview invitation will provide instructions on how to schedule the interview. Interviews may take place on the University of Washington campus, in other select locations, or virtually via Zoom. If you are invited to interview, you must do so in order to remain under consideration for admission to the program.

Notification

If you submitted a complete application, including all supplementary materials, by one of the application deadlines, an admission decision will be sent to you via email no later than 5 p.m. on the above corresponding decision dates. All communication regarding the status of your application, including admission decisions, will be through email only.

Admitted Student Welcome Weekend

If you have been admitted to the MBA Program, you will be invited to attend our Welcome Weekend—you need not have made the decision to attend Foster to take part! This event is intended to help you gain a deeper understanding of the program, meet potential classmates, connect with faculty and staff, and benefit from the perspectives of current Foster MBA students. Welcome Weekend will be held in early February and late April. Specific dates will be posted soon.

Visiting Graduate Student Applications

On a limited basis, we accept applications from individuals who meet the Visiting Graduate Student (VGS) requirements and are eligible to take MBA courses without being admitted as a degree-seeking student. Before applying, we strongly encourage all prospective applicants to make an appointment with a member of our admissions team to verify eligibility, and to discuss the application process and upcoming deadlines. The application deadline for applicants is approximately 6 weeks before the desired quarter of enrollment. For more information or to schedule an appointment email [email protected] or call (206) 543-4661.

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UW System Admissions

Campus guidelines and requirements.

G et the specific admission requirements for each Universities of Wisconsin, as well as information on minimum requirements for admission to any UW.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, and other educators are a great way for your students to strengthen their college applications. Get step-by-step guides for submitting letters of recommendation to UW System campuses and download the Universities of Wisconsin “Recommendation for Undergraduate Admission” form.

Enrollment Deposit Information

Once your students decide where they want to go to college, they will want to make sure they pay their enrollment deposit to save their spot. Get the details on each UW’s enrollment deposit requirements.

Campus Housing Information

Once your students are admitted to a Universities of Wisconsin, they will probably want to know about securing campus housing. Get the details for each UW here.

Application Fees

For freshman and transfer applicants: The following UW universities charge an application fee for every application submitted: UW-Eau Claire, UW La Crosse ($25), and UW-Madison ($70). For the other UW universities, students may submit up to three applications for free to either the main campus or branch campus. After that, students will be charged $25 per application.

Note that UW-Stevens Point and UW-Whitewater allow students to apply to both their main campuses and branch campuses. Doing so will incur the same fee as applying to any single campus within that university.

If students are concerned about paying application fees, students can note their financial hardship on the personal information section of the application to apply for an application fee waiver.

Secondary Application

The University of Washington School of Medicine (UWSOM) invites select applicants to complete the Secondary Application after receipt and review of their AMCAS application. Unlike many medical schools, UWSOM does not request Secondary Applications automatically; applications are screened to determine if a Secondary Application will be requested.

Applicants with legal residence in Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho will receive the Secondary Application invitation after undergoing an automated academic screen. Washington applicants also undergo this automated academic screen, then will receive an invitation to complete a questionnaire about their residence history. Once they have submitted this questionnaire, they will then be invited to complete the Secondary Application. Out-of-region (non-WWAMI) applicants go through additional review processes to determine if they are a mission fit for the program prior to receiving the Secondary Application invitation.

The completed application materials listed below must be received by  December 1  at 11:59pm PT. If all materials are not received by this date, the application will no longer be considered.

There is an optional section on the Secondary Application to apply to the TRUST program and CUSP . All CUSP and TRUST application materials are due in the Admissions Office by December 1 at 11:59pm PT.

Medical Scientist Training Program, MSTP (M.D./Ph.D.) applicants will need to initiate their supplementary application on the MSTP website . Applicants applying to BOTH the M.D./Ph.D. and the M.D.-only program will need to submit two supplementary applications (one to each program). Check with the MSTP office for its application deadlines . The UWSOM does not accept written activity updates. Grade updates (i.e., official and unofficial transcripts) for future and in-progress coursework are required. Additional letters of recommendation and changes in contact information should be sent through AMCAS. If you are offered an interview, you may share any updates with your interviewers at that time.

We expect applications to be correct and complete when submitted. If you feel your application will be substantially better after completing additional experiences, we recommend that you wait to apply.

Secondary Application requirements:

Additional Short Essays (250-word limit each)

• How have societal inequities in the U.S. affected you or people you have worked with?
• The UWSOM aims to build a diverse class of students to enrich the field of medicine. What perspectives, identities, and/or qualities would you bring?
• What obstacles have you experienced and how have you overcome them?
• Describe your competency by explaining how you have explored and come to understand issues in the social sciences and humanities as they relate to the practice of medicine.

For re-applicants: From your most recent application until now, how have you strengthened your application?

For Wyoming applicants: Describe your experiences in Wyoming that have influenced and/or informed your decision to pursue a medical career? For re-applicants not offered an interview,  read our advice.

Letters of recommendation

Submit a pre-medical committee evaluation and up to three additional letters, or submit a minimum of three and up to six letters from writers who can speak to one or more of the following:

• Academic ability
• Commitment to service
• Leadership potential
• Clinical or research experiences
• Interpersonal skills
• Interaction with patients
• Ability to function on a team, and/or potential as a physician
• Respect for others
• Communication skills

The collection of letters should provide a balanced and well-rounded view of your candidacy for medicine. Letters of recommendation from people who know you well can give the committee a better understanding of who you are. Consider current employers, people at your volunteer or shadowing opportunities, teaching assistants, etc.  Note: It is strongly encouraged that letters be printed on university, company or personal letterhead and signed. Letters of recommendation that are missing letterhead and/or signature will be given less consideration.

All letters of recommendation should be submitted via the:  AMCAS Letter Service .

See  Guidelines for Writing Letters of Recommendation  for additional assistance.

Background and personal information

Provide additional information about your background:

• Graduating high School information: high school name and zip code
• Where you graduated high school
• Where you had the most formative/meaningful experiences
• Where you grew up
• Where your parents live
• Where you have lived the longest
• Federally recognized tribe registration
• Identification with a Southeast Asian community (Bhutanese, Burmese, Cham, Hmong, Khmer, Lao, Mien, Thai, or Vietnamese)

Policy acknowledgments

Applicants are expected to read and comply with the UW School of Medicine student policies . Applicants who do not agree to these policies will not be considered for admission.

State residency certification

Candidates from  Wyoming ,  Alaska ,  Montana and  Idaho  will be required to submit residency certification from their respective state certifying officers. Washington  residents may or may not be required to provide proof of legal residence, but should be  prepared to verify their state residency  at any point in the application process.

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QUESTIONS ABOUT THE DECEMBER DEADLINE

HELP! Today is the deadline and when I look online, my application still shows as incomplete… Will I still be considered for admission in Autumn Quarter?

How do I know if you have received my transcript(s)?

How do I know if you have received my letters of recommendation?

What is the application deadline for international applicants?

When will I hear a decision?

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Do I need to have a degree in Atmospheric Sciences to be eligible to apply to your program?

Are GRE scores required?

What science and math coursework should I take before I apply?

• How do I apply for research or teaching assistantships?
• What salary and benefits are offered with an RA or TA in Atmospheric Sciences?
• How many apply to your program? How many are admitted?
• Is there a minimum GPA required? What is the average GPA for admitted applicants?
• How many grad students do you have?

How long is the MS program? How long is the PhD program?

• Should I apply to the MS program or the PhD program?

How do I make arrangements to visit the department? Is there funding available for me to visit?

Am I allowed to defer an offer of admission?

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE GENERAL APPLICATION

How do I apply to your graduate program?

What is the application deadline?

How much does it cost to apply?

May I apply for admission in winter or spring quarters?

Is an official transcript required for the application? An unofficial transcript?

How will I know when my application materials have been received?

• How do I make a change to my online application once I have clicked the “submit” button?

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT APPLICATION

Is there funding available to international applicants? What kind of funding and how do I apply?

Are there additional forms for international applicants?

How many international applicants apply to your program? How many are admitted?

What is the minimum score required on English proficiency exams (TOEFL, IELTS)?

Am I required to take an English proficiency exam in order to be eligible for admission?

• What is the department’s mailing address? What is the mailing address of the Graduate School’s Office of Admissions?

Questions About the December Deadline

• As long as all materials required for the application are received by 11:59 PST on December 1st, then we will consider your application complete. Mailed letters of recommendation postmarked by December 1st will be accepted, even if received after the deadline, however please be aware that application review begins very soon after the deadline – it is recommended that mailed materials submitted near the deadline be sent priority or express.
• The Advising Office is open Monday-Friday PST; it is not open on evenings, weekends, or national holidays. We will update application materials during regular office hours – if you submitted your application and/or materials near the December 1st deadline, please allow 1-3 business days after the deadline for processing. If you have concerns about the status of your materials, please contact the Academic Advisor .

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• If you have already submitted official transcripts the department will keep them on file for one year. Transcripts that have already been submitted can not be returned and are considered the property of the University of Washington.
• The Department of Atmospheric Sciences reserves the right to request an official transcript at any time.
• Applicants admitted to the program who accept our offer will be required to submit official transcripts. If you have already submitted official transcripts we will use those.
• Electronically submitted letters are updated automatically by the application system as they are received.
• If you see that a letter or letters are still showing as not received, you may want to contact the recommender and remind them of the December 1st deadline. Instructions on submitting letters electronically were sent automatically to the recommender via email when you entered their name in your application – we do not have access to the email or instructions departmentally so please ask your recommender to refer to the original email.
• We will accept emailed letters of recommendation provided they are sent to the Academic Advisor directly from the recommender with applicant’s name explicitly stated in the email, and are formatted as .txt, .doc, or .pdf files. If possible, we would also like the recommender to complete the recommendation form and include it with the letter.
• International applicants who submit a complete application by the December 1st deadline will receive full consideration for admission
• Application review begins after the December 1st deadline. Decisions are sent out beginning in late January all the way through late March/early April.

General Questions

• No – graduate students in the atmospheric sciences come from a variety of disciplines: physics, chemistry, engineering, atmospheric, or geophysical sciences, and applied mathematics. Opportunities are broad enough that each of these backgrounds is valuable for specific subfields within the atmospheric sciences. However, students of atmospheric sciences should have in common a sound background in the fundamentals of physics and applied mathematics and an interest in complex natural phenomena.
• GRE scores are not required for application to our graduate program. Self-reported GRE scores will not be considered and will be redacted during application review.
• While the graduate program has no specific prerequisites, it is generally recommended that at least two years of mathematics (beginning with calculus and going through differential equations) be taken prior to applying for admission into the program, as well as one and one half years of calculus based physics. Other courses in mathematics, computer science and the various physical sciences would also be appropriate, depending upon a student’s interest in a specific aspect of the atmospheric sciences. (A student interested in atmospheric chemistry might, for example, take additional courses in chemistry).

  How do I apply for research or teaching assistantships?

• All applicants are automatically considered for a research assistantship – there are no additional forms required. Most offers of admission are accomanied by an offer of a research assistantship.

  What salary and benefits are offered with an RA or TA in Atmospheric Sciences?

• Stipends for beginning Research Assistants in the Dept. of Atmospheric Sciences are detailed in the Variable Rate RA Salary Schedule on the Graduate School’s website . Out-of-state tuition is waived and in-state tuition is paid for Research Assistants, as is medical, visual and dental insurance. Students are expected to work half-time, 20 hours per week, on research during the academic year, and fulltime during the summer. RA and TA appointments are governed by a contract between the UW and the GSEAC/UAW – more info may be found here .
• Graduate students in Atmospheric Sciences are required to serve as Teaching Assistants for one or two quarters. The first quarter in which a student serves as a TA usually occurs during their second graduate year. The TA stipend will be at the same rate as the student’s research assistantship.

  How many apply to your program? How many are admitted?

• The Dept. of Atmospheric Sciences receives an average of 140-180 applications each year with an average entering class of 10-14 new graduate students each autumn.

  Is there a minimum GPA required? What is the average GPA for admitted applicants?

• Admission as a graduate student in Atmospheric Sciences is competitive. A minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0 (B averages) is required.

  How many grad students do you have?

• There are typically 65-70 graduate students in the Dept. of Atmospheric Sciences.
• Typically, students in our program earn the MS degree in three years and the PhD degree in an additional two to three years. Timing may vary.

Should I apply to the masters (MS) program or the doctoral (PhD) program?

• If your ultimate goal is to obtain a MS degree only, then you should apply to the masters program. If you intend to pursue a PhD degree, then you should indicate PhD on your application.
• All students admitted into the Atmospheric Sciences graduate program are admitted initially into the MS program of study with the option of applying to the PhD program in their third year of study.
• Visits to the department are welcome. Please contact the Academic Advisor to make arrangements.
• Travel funding may be available to some applicants who are offered admission.
• Requests to defer matriculation after admission to the graduate program should be made to the graduate program coordinator (GPC) well in advance of the April 15 decision deadline. The GPC will work with the prospective student and potential faculty advisors to determine if such a request can be granted on a case by case basis.

Questions About the General Application

• To apply to the graduate program in Atmospheric Sciences, complete the UW Application for Graduate Admission and submit all required materials by the deadline.
• The deadline for admission consideration is December 1st.
• The application fee is $85 USD, subject to change without notice. The fee is paid online using MasterCard or Visa credit or debit cards.
• This fee is regulated and collected by the UW Graduate School and is paid prior to finalizing submission of the online application. Questions about fee waivers should be directed to Graduate School Admissions .
• Autumn quarter is the only quarter for which we accept applications for admission.
• As we receive your application materials, we will update your online application profile, created once you have submitted the online application.
• Your application will not appear in our departmental queue until you click the submit button – until that time, we are not able to check on receipt of any materials. Please wait to contact our office with questions about receipt of materials until after you have submitted your application and checked your online profile for updates.

How do I make a change to my online application once I have clicked the “submit” button?

• Some changes – such as contact information – may be made via your application profile. Contact Graduate Program Admissions to request any changes that you are not able to make yourself in your application profile.
• We will accept updated statements of interest or resumes via email. Please do not send any materials that are not specifically requested in the application checklist.

Questions About the International Student Application

• International applicants who submit a complete application by the December 1st deadline will receive full consideration for admission.
• All applicants, regardless of citizenship, are automatically considered for a research assistantship – there are no additional forms required. Most offers of admission are accompanied by an offer of a research assistantship. More information on funding may be found here .
• The UW Graduate School no longer requires additional forms or information from international applicants at the time of application. If an applicant receives an offer of admission from our program, then the Graduate School will require additional paperwork. Click here to see a list of materials, to be submitted directly to the Graduate School only upon offer of admission. Questions about these forms should be directed to the UW Graduate School .
• In a typical year, 30% of our applicants are residents of other countries besides the United States. Approximately 18% of admission offers go to international applicants.
• Information on English proficiency may be found here . Questions regarding English proficiency may be directed to Graduate Admissions .
• Yes, with some exceptions , all international applicants are required to demonstrate English proficiency according to the UW Graduate School’s policy:
• A satisfactory command of the English language is required for admission to the University of Washington Graduate School. Applicants, including international applicants, permanent residents, immigrants and transfer students, who are not citizens of the United States on the date of admission, and whose native language is other than English, must meet this requirement. No waivers of this English proficiency requirement may be given. See Graduate School Memo #8 and English proficiency tests comparison tables for the University’s policy.
• Questions regarding English proficiency should be directed to Graduate Admissions .

What is the department’s mailing address? What is the mailing address of the Graduate School’s Office of Admissions?

• Contact information and mailing addresses for application materials may be found here .

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You’re part of a group of truly amazing people. At UWL, we are inspired every day by the driven, active and engaged students who make us so proud. That’s right, you’re amazing!

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Here in La Crosse, people come together to work for the common good.

At UWL, we live out the Wisconsin idea of public service and community engagement. We are proud to work with our many partners in La Crosse, giving back every day to a community that generously supports our teaching, learning and service mission.

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UWL pride stays strong long after graduation! Stay connected with our beautiful campus and the faculty and friends who made your "La Crosse Experience" so special.

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UWL consistently delivers a high-quality and life-changing experience. We’re able to do it because of you, our talented and dedicated faculty and staff. You are the reason for our excellence!

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University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | uwlax.edu

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New freshman

A page within admissions, your education begins here., result: program: cba.

This is a program in our College of Business Administration, where highly-accomplished faculty bring real-life skills to the classroom. These courses take place in the newly renovated Wittich Hall. Learn more about this program and others in the College of Business Administration .

Result: program: CSH

This is a program in our College of Science and Health. Our campus offers a wide range of pre-health and science-related majors. Prairie Springs Science Center, as well as the surrounding bluffs and marsh, provides hands-on educational opportunities to our students. Learn more about this program and others in the College of Science & Health .

Result: program: CASSH

This is a program in our College of Arts, Social Sciences, & Humanities (CASSH), where students are taught critical thinking, communication, and problem solving by renowned faculty and staff. Learn more about this program and others in the College of Arts, Social Sciences, & Humanities .

Result: program: SOE

This is a program in our School of Education, which prepares teachers for various disciplines and specialties in all types of classrooms. Learn more about specific teacher education programs .

Result: program: VPA

Result: info before.

Thank you, !

We look forward to assisting you on your journey.

Result: process: exploring

Great! A perfect way to start is to visit our campus. We've got many different opportunities to explore what it is like at UWL. You can sign up for a visit !

Result: process: fine-tuning

Have questions about what makes UWL unique? Our Admissions team is happy to help you as you prepare your list. Just email us at [email protected] .

Result: process: ready

To start your application, head to apply.wisconsin.edu and begin! Have questions about the process? You can learn more more about it .

Result: process: applied

Be sure to log into your WINGS Student Center to confirm you've completed all items on your to-do list!

Result: process: admitted

Congratulations! Head over to our Admitted New Freshman page to make sure you're aware of the necessary next steps.

Result: start: now

Our application is open now! Apply at apply.wisconsin.edu

Result: start: future

Our application typically opens August 1st, so please visit apply.wisconsin.edu anytime on or after August 1, 2022.

Result: type: freshman

What a great place to start your college career! New freshmen live in one of nine residence halls on campus, where they have a chance to become fully immersed in UWL's exciting, active culture. If you've already been admitted as a freshman, read up on your next steps here . 

Result: type: transfer

UWL has many resources for students joining us from other institutions. To see how your courses might transfer, check out Transferology. If you've already been admitted as a transfer student, read up on your next steps here . 

Result: type: graduate

Further your education and career in the fields of science, health, technology, education, and more! Learn more about UWL's graduate programs here . 

Result: type: other

If you've got questions about how what type of student you are and how you should apply, please call the Admissions Office at 608.785.8939. 

Result: concern: cost

With scholarships and financial aid, there are many options for students to afford UWL. Explore more about scholarships and financial aid .

Result: concern: first gen

First generation students have a place on our campus. We provide many resources to help you navigate this experience that is new for you and for your family. Check out the UWL First! Scholars program , which specifically helps First Generation students like you.

Result: concern: friends

Between intramural sports, student organizations, and the amazing communities that develop in our residence halls, there is no shortage of opportunities to build friendships. UWL is a close-knit campus where students make friends that last forever.

Result: concern: balance

UWL student athletes repeatedly report the highest average GPAs in our conference. Our coaches and academic departments are on a shared mission to create well-rounded Eagles.

Result: concern: major

We often say that our most popular major is Undeclared, because many students don't know what they want to study. That's okay! College is for exploration and finding a path that fits for you. We've got such a great variety of majors that there are no shortage to choose from, when you're ready.

Result: concern: academics

If you're admitted to UWL, our campus has support systems in place for your academic success. We've got places like Murphy Library Center Tutoring where you can get hands-on help with your coursework.

Result: info after

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a time to meet with one of our admissions counselors today!

Schedule my campus visit

Applying for admission

We take a comprehensive holistic approach when reviewing each application. Your academic performance in the classroom (rigor of courses and high school transcript) is the most important factor in our review of your application. We also consider factors such as ACT or SAT test scores, extracurricular activities, demonstrated leadership, essays, and letters of recommendation.

Application materials 

• UW System application for admission – apply.wisconsin.edu
• Nonrefundable application fee
• High school transcripts (may be uploaded with the application for admission).
• ACT or SAT scores (optional) (ACT code: 4672, SAT code: 1914)
• Letters of recommendation (maximum of 2) (optional)

Admission considerations

Primary Factors

• Including taking full advantage of senior year
• Including demonstrating a positive grade trend
• Middle 50% Range of Admitted Students – Class Rank: 68 th to 90 th Percentile
• If a high school does not provide a class rank, then cumulative grade point average will be considered in the admission decision

Secondary Factors 

While academic preparation is the primary criterion used in the admission review process, we consider other secondary factors that may contribute to the strength of an application, including:

• Middle 50% Range of Admitted Students – ACT: 23 to 27
• Middle 50% Range of Admitted Students – SAT: 1130 to 1270
• Extracurricular activities
• Demonstrated leadership
• Special talent
• This part is all about you. Tell us about something you’ve done — academically or personally — and what you’ve learned from it. Was it a success or a challenge? Did it represent a turning point in your life? How did this particular moment in your life influence you, and how will it continue to influence you as you pursue your college education?
• How will your life experiences or commitments enrich the UW-La Crosse campus community?
• Tell us why you are interested in attending UW-La Crosse and what aspects of the campus are especially important to you.
• We accept up to two letters maximum
• Letters may be mailed or emailed as an attachment to [email protected]
• The UW System Letter of Recommendation Form is also available

The Wisconsin Guarantee

New freshman applicants from Wisconsin may be eligible for guaranteed admission to UW-La Crosse. This program will be available to students planning to enroll for Fall 2025 and beyond. Students must apply during their senior year of high school (or final year of homeschool or online school). 

Wisconsin residents qualify for this program by meeting one of the following criteria:

• Enrollment in a public, private, or tribal high school in Wisconsin with a class rank in the top 10% (upon completion of 11th grade)
• Enrollment in homeschool or virtual private school with an ACT score at or above the 90th percentile (nationally)
• Selection as a National Merit Scholarship finalist

Participation requirements:

• Complete the UW system application for admission
• Meet admission requirements as outlined by the Board of Regents
• Admission may be revoked due to deterioration of academic performance, misrepresentation of academic information, academic misconduct, or failure to receive a high school diploma.

Additional information about high school transcripts

Unofficial high school transcripts may be uploaded with the application for admission.  In addition, high school transcripts may be sent from your high school to the UWL Admissions Office.  An official final high school transcript with graduation date (sent directly from your high school) will be required for all admitted students enrolling at UWL.

Additional information about ACT or SAT scores

UWL’s current test optional policy means applicants will choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores, such as the ACT or SAT, as part of their admission application. Visit Testing & Scoring for additional information.

If an applicant has previously submitted test scores to UWL but indicates on the application that they would not like their scores considered, test scores will not be viewed during the application review.

Applicants are encouraged to send official test scores directly from the testing agency or may self-report test scores.

Self-reported test scores may be submitted in either of the following ways:

• Send screenshots or scanned copies of score reports via email ( [email protected] )
• Mail a copy of your score report to the UWL Admissions Office

If you submit self-reported scores, please note that your official test scores (sent directly from the testing agency) will be required prior to enrollment.  Any discrepancies from self-reported test scores may result in rescinding our offer of admission. 

Application periods

Fall term - application available beginning August 1

All complete applications received by February 1 will receive full consideration for admission. Applications received or completed after February 1 will be considered on a space-available basis.

Spring term - application available beginning April 1

Applications will be considered on a space-available basis. 

Materials to submit

• High school transcripts (may be uploaded during application) and senior year courses/class schedule

Admissions decisions

After all materials required for your application are received, an admission decision will be mailed via USPS in three to five weeks.  You can also track your application status online through WINGS.  Access information will be sent to applicants after they submit an application.

Postpone decisions 

Some applicants may be placed on a postpone list, in which an admission decision is made at a later date. Review of the postponed applicants begins in early December and continues thereafter, dependent upon the number of applications received and space available in the freshman class. These applicants are typically contacted after the application priority date of February 1 with an update on their status. They will be notified of a final admission decision no later than May 1. Postponed applicants will be given an opportunity to provide additional information for their application. This may include:

• Senior year grades
• ACT or SAT scores (if not previously submitted) or higher scores from retaking the exam
• 1 or 2 letters of recommendation
• Documentation verifying the addition of senior year courses (including any college/university course work)

Test Optional

Our temporary test optional policy means applicants may choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores, such as the ACT or SAT, as part of their admission application. Applicants choosing to not submit standardized tests will not be at a disadvantage nor will it negatively impact their application review.

Although we are test optional, submission of scores may increase your chances of being awarded freshman scholarships.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why would a student submit standardized test scores for admission consideration if they don’t have to?

A: A student might decide that their score gives a more complete picture of academic achievements and potential.

Q: Should I go test optional and not turn in my scores?

A: It is important to know that for many of our applicants, submitting scores is a great idea if you have them. Some students do not realize that scores they consider low can still play a positive part of our decision process. For example, 25% of students admitted for Fall 2020 scored a 22 or lower on the ACT.

Q: Will I have a different chance of admission if I don’t provide test scores?

A: We will not treat applicants without scores differently than those who do provide them. If we determine we cannot offer you admission (by sending you a letter of denial or putting you on a postpone list) and you did not provide scores, you will be given a way to provide your scores at that time.

Q: How do I indicate I will not be providing test scores?

A: There will be a question on the UW System application that asks if you wish to be considered for admission with or without test scores.

Q: Should I take the ACT or SAT?

A: We do not have a preference. Applicants can submit the ACT, the SAT, or both, and we’ll consider your best score. See the Superscore section for additional information. We recommend that all students take either the ACT or SAT exam. You will have an opportunity later to determine if you would like to include your test score in the application review.

Superscoring 

If you choose to submit standardized test scores and have taken a test multiple times, UWL superscores both the ACT and SAT.  Superscoring is the process of averaging your best section scores from all of your test attempts.

UWL considers your highest section scores across all the dates you took the ACT or SAT.  Rather than confining your scores to one particular date, we will take your highest section scores in each section, forming the highest possible composite score.  We need to receive all of the sections of each ACT (English, math, reading, science) or SAT (reading and writing, math) to calculate an ACT or SAT superscore.

UWL does not consider the writing portion of either test.

• Advanced Placement (AP) credit
• College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
• Department credit by examination
• GCE A-Level Examinations
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• Retroactive credit
• Transferology  
• Request an unofficial transfer credit evaluation

If you have been admitted to UW-La Crosse, congratulations! Check out our  admitted new freshman page  to complete your next steps. 

Take the virtual tour

• Faculty & Staff

Applications & recommendations

Application instructions.

Once you have determined your academic and personal goals, researched your options, and discussed your plans with a study abroad adviser, it’s time to apply for a program by accessing MyGlobal (UW Study Abroad online portal). To do so, follow these steps:

1. Select the program to which you want to apply from the Upcoming Programs page or the program search results.

2. Click the “Apply Now” button

3. Enter your UW NetID and password

4. Select a term of study

5. Click on each of the links in MyGlobal associated with the various tasks to be completed: questionnaires, material submissions, electronic signature documents and recommendation requests.

Application Requirements

• All applications require your electronic signature on several study abroad policy documents.
• UW Exchanges and UW Faculty-led Programs also require a statement of purpose or a few short answer questions and a recommendation survey from an instructor.
• Material submissions, including university transcripts, may also be required.
• Most UW Partner Programs require that you submit a second application directly to the study abroad program provider in addition to the UW application. It is important to note that UW Study Abroad deadlines may be earlier than the application deadlines published by the UW partner.

Eligibility Requirements

To study abroad, you must be in good academic standing and meet all program-specific eligibility requirements as described in the program brochure. You must also be cleared for study abroad by UW’s Community Standards and Student Conduct Office.

Frequently asked questions

How competitive is it to get into a study abroad program.

Competitiveness varies a lot between individual programs and program types and is difficult to predict. Students can apply to up to 3 programs within a given term and most students will get into one of these programs. Please note that application questions are often similar, if not entirely the same, so students can often make adjustments to essays and can use the same recommender across applications. If you would like an already submitted recommendation survey copied to multiple applications, please contact [email protected].

Students applying to a Faculty-led Program should apply to more than one program so that they have a back-up plan.

For exchanges, students will fill out one application and within the application will list the top three exchange universities they are interested in attending.

Competitiveness for UW Partner Programs is more nuanced. Please email [email protected] or schedule a Program-Specific Advising appointment.

Can I apply to more than one study abroad program for the same academic term?

Yes. However, you must submit a separate application for each program unless the online system provides the option to designate a second or third choice as part of a single application. This exception applies to University Exchanges and some UW Partner Program options. You will be limited to a maximum of three program applications per program type (Faculty-led Program, UW Partner Program and University Exchanges) in a single academic term. However, we do not recommend applying to multiple UW Partner Programs in certain situations. Please email [email protected] if you are considering applying multiple UW Partner Programs.

Please note that application questions are often similar, if not entirely the same, so students can often make adjustments to essays and can use the same recommender across applications. If you would like an already submitted recommendation survey copied to multiple applications, please contact [email protected].

Can non-UW students apply to UW study abroad programs?

If you are not a UW student, you may participate in UW Faculty-led Programs as a non-matriculated student. Priority for admission to Faculty-led Programs is given to matriculating UW students, but you may be admitted if space is available and if you meet the qualifications for the program. You may apply to a Faculty-led program clicking “Apply Now” on a given program’s site. You will then be asked to create a MyGlobal account with the UW Study Abroad website. If you are accepted to the program, you will receive a UW student number, UW NetID, and MyUW personal account. As a non-matriculated student, you are expected to participate in all aspects of the program.  At the end of the program, you will receive numeric grades and can request a UW transcript, regardless of your need for credit.

I am planning on graduating in spring and want to attend a summer or Early Fall program. Is this possible?

If you are graduating in the spring and you would like to participate in a program during summer or Early Fall, there are two options:

You can work with your academic adviser to determine if it is possible for you to postpone graduation. This extension of your graduation date would be contingent on your acceptance to the program. You can apply to the program as a non-matriculated student. If you are accepted to the program, you need to contact UW Study Abroad to let us know that your status will change to non-matriculated. As a non-matriculated student, you are expected to participate in all aspects of the program. At the end of the program, you will receive numeric grades and can request a UW transcript, regardless of your need for credit.

Is there an application fee?

No. However, some UW partners charge application fees as part of their process or require a program deposit before confirming acceptance.

What should I include in my statement of purpose?

Your statement of purpose should be 750 to 1,000 words in length and clearly articulate your qualifications for studying and living abroad, your reasons for choosing a particular program, and the projected benefits for your course of study.

What makes a strong application?

Write a strong personal statement that highlights your reasons for wanting to study abroad, your academic and personal goals, and what you hope to gain from the experience. Explain why you are excited about the opportunity and how it fits into your overall academic and personal journey. Be authentic and sincere in your writing.

How do I request recommendation survey?

• A request to the recommender can be sent within your online study abroad application.
• The request must be sent by the application deadline, but  the general recommendation itself does not have a strict deadline .

The UW Study Abroad website states that there are currently no application cycles for my program. What does this mean?

Application cycles open three to six months prior to the application deadline listed on the program website and close immediately after the application deadline has passed for a given academic term. If there are currently no open application cycles for your program, you are probably applying too early or too late.

The application deadline for my program has passed. Can I still apply?

To place yourself in the best possible position for consideration and selection to a particular program or exchange, you should meet the published deadline. However, application extensions are granted when enrollment in a particular program or exchange is low. If you wish to apply for a program after the deadline, you should contact the UW study abroad adviser responsible for that program or exchange.

If you are applying to FRILA – Independent Learning Abroad, we typically accept late applications. Please choose the next available term, and we will adjust your term based on your itinerary.

My GPA falls below the program requirement. Am I ineligible?

Not necessarily. When considering your GPA, study abroad advisers and program faculty often look at GPA trends in addition to cumulative marks. If you have a couple quarters of sub-par performance that pull you below the required GPA but, otherwise, your academic record demonstrates academic consistency or steady improvement, you may still be considered. The type of coursework completed is also factored in by application reviewers.

The decision date listed on the program brochure has passed and I haven't heard anything. Does this mean that I have not been accepted?

The decision date is the earliest date that you may receive an update about your application and participation status. Changes to your status can also be viewed on your study abroad account. If you do not receive a status update by the decision date, it means your application is still being considered.

How will I be notified whether I've been accepted into a program and what happens after acceptance?

Once your application status changes to “Accepted”, you will receive an email prompting you to log into MyGlobal. There are three status possibilities: accepted, not accepted, and waitlisted.

Find out why the MHCI+D program may be the perfect fit for you

Application Deadline

Applications for fall 2024 are open as of october 1, 2023..

The deadline to apply is January 15 , 2024, 11:59pm Pacific Standard Time.

Countdown to deadline:

Details on coming Admissions Info Sessions will be posted by October on the How To Learn More page.

Admission Requirements

The following are the minimum admission requirements for the Master of Human-Computer Interaction and Design (MHCI+D) program as set by the University of Washington Graduate School and the MHCI+D Program.

4-year bachelor's degree

Hold the minimum equivalent of a four-year baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in the U.S. or its equivalent from a foreign institution. A 3-year bachelor’s degree alone does not satisfy this requirement unless it meets one of the following criteria:

• A 3-year Bologna bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 180 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits.
• A 3-year bachelor’s combined with either conferral of a master’s degree, or with conferral of a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD, 1-year minimum, full-time).

The UW does not accept WES evaluations of 4-year equivalency as sufficient to satisfy this requirement.

A minimum 3.0 grade point average

Have earned at least a 3.0 or B grade-point-average when converted into the 4.0 scale. Applicants may use:

• The most recent 2 years of study (or the equivalent of 2 full-time years, usually the last graded 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits);
• The overall GPA for the entire course of study;
• or the GPA for all courses in the applicant's major

Tools for converting from a different grading system are linked in the FAQ page.

Demonstrated English language proficiency

Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency which exceeds the minimum defined by the Graduate School .

Applicants must meet the requirement using one of the following methods:

• A bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an institution in the United States, Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, or the United Kingdom where English is the medium of instruction. While enrolled at the degree-granting school, the student must be in residence on campus.
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a country not listed above with verification that the language of instruction was entirely in English.
• TOEFL Scores: TOEFL iBT: 106, with a speaking subscore of at least 26. Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline. Scores must be sent directly to the UW by the Educational Testing Service using institution code 4854; if a department code is required, select 99. We accept MyBest TOEFL composite scores as a means of meeting these requirements.
• IELTS scores: IELTS: 7.5, with a speaking module score of at least 8.0. Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline. Scores must be sent directly to the UW.
• DUOLINGO scores: Minimum score of 125. . Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline.

Required Application Materials

Personal statement.

In 500–800 words, please describe your unique interest in HCI and design, and explain what specific elements of the UW MHCI+D Program are aligned with your needs as an emerging HCI+D leader. Why this year? How have your prior experiences (professional experience, life experience, and/or previous studies) prepared you for this program and this field? How will this program assist you in your longer-term goals?

Resume or curriculum vitae

Applicants must submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) showing their educational and professional experience. Relevant volunteer and leadership experiences may also be included.

Three letters of recommendation

Three letters from professional or academic sources are required. These can be faculty members, mentors, supervisors and so on, but should not be from personal friends, counselors or ministers. Find references who can speak positively and in detail about your performance and about your capacity to undertake graduate studies. When asking for recommendation letters, we encourage you to ask potential recommenders if they are able to write you a strong letter and to emphasize what you hope their letter will highlight. Letters with specific examples are often the strongest. The letters should be submitted electronically and the Slate application system provides instructions. When recommender info is entered on the application, it will trigger a system message to the recommender with the specific link they need to upload their letter. Check with them to be sure they receive this. Remember to remind your letter writers that late letters may adversely affect your admission chances. You will be able to see when the letters have been submitted online by logging into your  application status page .

Unofficial transcripts from every college or university attended

Unofficial transcripts are required from all colleges and universities from which you earned collegiate level credit and/or a degree. These are uploaded by you, not sent from your university. These can be scanned documents or screen shots of an online 'student view' transcript many universities provide. Transcripts should include details for every course taken, including the course name, grade earned, dates taken, and number of credits. If the transcript is not in English, please include a translation. Official transcripts only need to be submitted to the UW Graduate School if you accept an admission offer.

Supplementary materials (optional, but strongly recommended)

Use this section to show us projects you have worked on that demonstrate your skills and interests. This can take the form of a design portfolio, your GitHub page, a link to research you were a part of in a research lab, or something else that demonstrates your role in an open-ended project. We are most interested in seeing your problem-solving process in the field you come from, more so than attempts to anticipate the product you might produce after completing this program. FORMAT: Please submit a one-page pdf that includes your name, a link to where we can find these supplementary materials online, and a brief explanation, if necessary. Materials can be presented on a portfolio/website, in a shared folder such as google or in other online formats. Do not submit portfolios through the application itself.

English language proficiency

• IELTS scores: IELTS: 7.5, with a speaking module score of at least 8.0. OScores must be less than two years old at the application deadline. Scores must be sent directly to the UW.

UW Graduate School online application and fee

The $85 application fee is charged by the UW Graduate School. If you cannot afford the application fee, you can request an application fee waiver once your application materials are ready to submit and at least 7 days before the application deadline. More information here .

Application Steps

Step one: prepare to apply.

• Learn about the MHCI+D Program. Explore the information available on this website to learn about the program and how you might succeed here. We are looking for applicants who know how their background and this program fit well together.
• Start preparing your personal statement and supplemental materials. These pieces will take the most work. Begin this early to ensure you will have time to put together a stronger case for your admission.
• Get transcripts from each college or university attended. Download unofficial transcripts or scan printed copies; you will need them for the UW Graduate School application.
• Identify people who are willing to write letters of recommendation for you. Three letters of recommendation are required to apply. Consider current or former employers or supervisors, as well as former teachers. Make sure the people you choose can judge your capacity to undertake graduate studies. You will need their email addresses for the Graduate School application.
• GPA preparation. Identify the method you will use to calculate your GPA, and the conversion you will be performing if necessary. You will be asked to report this GPA on the application form itself.

Step Two: Apply

• Once the application is available, start your online application to the UW Graduate School. When you create your applicant profile, your login and password will allow you to save your application and return to it later.
• To apply to the MHCI+D program, select "Human-Computer Interaction and Design" from ther program list
• Upload all required documents
• Designate the people who have agreed to write letters of recommendation for you. Your recommenders will be sent an email with instructions directing them to a secure website to submit their letters.
• Pay the nonrefundable $85 fee
• Submit your application. After you’ve submitted your application, you cannot make further changes. You can check on its status at any time by logging into the application page.

More Information

Tips on the application materials.

University of Washington

Health Systems and Population Health

School of public health.

• Admissions: Master of Health Administration
• Academic Experience
• Academic Programs
• Master of Health Administration

The UW Master of Health Administration (MHA) program is designed for early-career professionals or recent college graduates who want to pursue careers in health care management. The program considers candidates with a wide range of undergraduate training and work experience. The most competitive applicants have at least one year of professional work experience, preferably in the field of health services.

Our MHA program is a self-sustaining, fee-based program administered by the UW Department of Health Systems and Population Health (HSPop) in partnership with UW Continuum College.

Autumn 2024: MHA Application Timeline

Application Opens: September 1, 2023 Space Available Deadline: February 15, 2024 Applicant Interviews: February 2024 Applicants Notified: Approximately six weeks after the application deadline Admitted Students Day: March 15, 2024

The most competitive applicants will be invited for an in-person interview with program faculty, staff, and current students. An interview is required for admission to the MHA program.

Application Steps

Please complete an online application with the UW Graduate School AND a supplemental MHA application. We recommend you begin your application early in order to complete all requirements on time. Details are outlined below.

Step One: Research the Program

Review our website.

Learn as much as you can about our focus, format, and program expectations to consider if the program is right for you. You can also sign up for our admissions newsletter to learn more about the program and application process.

Meet Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Eligibility Criteria

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or its equivalent from a foreign institution
• 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent measures of performance from an institution with no grading system) for credits earned at the institution awarding the bachelor’s degree
• 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 90 graded quarter credits or 60 graded semester credits
• Demonstrated English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English

Applicants who also meet the following qualifications tend to be more competitive:

• One year of full-time, professional experience in the field of health services
• A cumulative GPA of 3.5

International and/or Undocumented Applicants

We welcome international and/or undocumented applicants. International students must have a visa status that allows for academic study at the University of Washington.

To learn more about applying to the university and available financial options, visit our department’s student resources page.

Understand Concurrent Degree Options

MHA students are eligible for the following concurrent degrees:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with UW Foster School of Business
• Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) with UW School of Medicine
• Master of Public Administration (MPA) with UW Evans School of Public Policy & Governance

Details and information about concurrent degrees are provided on the UW Department of Health Systems and Population Health (HSPop) website.

Attend an Information Session

We highly recommend that prospective applicants attend one of our monthly information sessions on Zoom to learn about the program’s format, curriculum, admissions, career outlook, and more.

Book an Advising Appointment

Meet one-on-one with our program recruitment specialist for a more in-depth discussion about the program and whether it is a good fit for you.

Connect with a Student Ambassador

Student ambassadors are current MHA students who help prospective students learn about the MHA program at the University of Washington. They have a wide variety of experiences and interests in health care.

Step Two: Prepare to Apply

Draft written materials, obtain unofficial transcripts, designate people to write letters of recommendation, and apply early for fee waivers.

Request Unofficial Transcripts

Obtain unofficial transcripts from each college or university where you have earned a degree or taken relevant coursework. Download unofficial transcripts or scan printed copies.

UW will request official transcripts when an offer of admission is made (international applicants) or accepted (domestic applicants).

Update Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Make sure your resume or curriculum vitae (CV) are up to date. The resume or curriculum vitae should include a complete history of your academic and professional work experience as well as any volunteer work, membership in professional organizations, licenses, honors (such as scholarships and awards) and publications.

Letters of Recommendation

Number Needed: 3

Identify three people who will write letters of recommendation, such as academic advisors, professors, supervisors, or mentors. Make sure you choose people who can evaluate your leadership and management skills and speak to your potential for a career in health services management. Consider getting recommendations from current or former employers or supervisors or former teachers, though professional recommendations are preferred

You will be asked to designate recommenders in the online application system with the UW Graduate School by providing names and email addresses. The online application system will then email specific instructions to each recommender. You will be able to return to the online application to check whether the application system has received the recommendations.

You are expected to be in contact with each recommender to make sure that the recommendations are sent to the online application system by the deadline.

Prepare Written Materials

Applicants can log into the UW Graduate School online application system and select the appropriate program to view information and details related to the written statements they need to prepare.

GRE Scores (optional)

The GRE is no longer required! However, if applicants feel their GRE scores are a better representation of their academic preparedness for the program than their transcripts, they may include their GRE scores.

If you choose to submit GRE scores, you must self-report them in the online application with the UW Graduate School AND have scores sent directly to UW from the Educational Testing Service using the UW institutional code. Scores from the testing services must arrive by the application deadline to be considered. GMAT will not be accepted in place of the GRE.

UW Institution Code: 4854

Request a Fee Waiver (optional)

You should request an application fee waiver as soon as possible.

You can request a fee waiver from the UW Graduate School or UW Department of Health Systems and Population Health.

If you requested an application fee waiver, DO NOT submit your application until you receive approval or denial for the fee waiver. You cannot get reimbursed after paying the application fee. Contact us if you have not heard about your fee waiver and need to submit your application.

Proof of English Language Proficiency (select students)

Applicants whose first language is not English might need to share proof of English language proficiency.

Test scores must be sent directly to the UW by the Educational Testing Service using the UW institution code. Only scores less than two years old will be accepted.

Step Three: Apply Online

The online application process is done through the UW Graduate School. Do not submit your application before applying or receiving your fee waiver . You can save your application and come back to it at any time to continue working on it.

Application Sections and Materials

• Program Name: Health Services Administration – In-Residence (Day) Program (MHA)
• Letters of Recommendation : Make sure all three letters have been submitted.
• Unofficial Transcripts
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose
• Supplemental Application Form
• GRE scores (optional)
• English Language Proficiency Scores (select students)
• Pay and Submit: Pay the nonrefundable application fee AND submit your application. DO NOT pay the fee if you applied for a fee waiver .

Step Four: Interview

Applications are reviewed by an admissions committee. The most competitive applicants will be invited for an interview with program faculty, staff, and current students. An interview is required for admission to the MHA program.

Admitted Students Day takes place on the UW Seattle campus in March for fall admissions cycles.

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When applying for a job or to graduate school, strong references and letters of recommendation are important tools that can help set you apart from other candidates. Keep these points in mind when asking for a reference or letter of recommendation. 

Choose the right reference

A  good  reference: A professor in whose class you earned a good grade or an employer who has commented positively about your work. 

A  great  reference: In addition to the above, they can comment on your personality and passions.

Academic reference 

Consider any professor:

• who has seen your best academic work
• with whom you’ve participated in a research project (e.g. laboratory work)
• with whom you engaged in a quarter-long special topics project
• with whom you visited during their office hours
• with whom you still communicate

Work reference 

Consider any Employer:

• where you received promotions
• where you completed any special projects
• where you can qualify or quantify your contribution to the organization
• where you left the organization on good terms

Letters of recommendation

Provide materials for your reference.

Just asking your reference to write you a letter of recommendation is not enough, and your letter, and consequently your chances of getting the job or grad school you want, will suffer if you do not follow through. You need to give your recommender all the tools they need to write an effective, compelling, and close letter.

• Give your recommender the following items:A  description  of the scholarship/position/graduate program for which you are applying
• Exact wording of what  should be covered in the letter  – skills, qualifications and accomplishments to be highlighted
• List of  specific, relevant experience : class projects, research, and papers for faculty; responsibilities and accomplishments for supervisors
• Resume , cover letter or personal statement used to apply
• Deadline  and specific submission  instructions  or forms
• Name and address  of letter recipient and a stamped addressed envelope (without your return address with room for the recommender to put their return address) for submission
• Communicate via  one email trail
• Be timely and responsive  to additional information requests from your reference
• Show thanks!
• Keep in touch  – let you recommender know the status of your application (including if you have reconsidered and decided not to apply)

Most programs will give you the option to waive your right to view the letter of recommendation in the application portal.  We advise students to waive this right to access the letter for several reasons: it shows your confidence in your choice of recommender, waiving adds credibility to an honest recommendation (a candid recommendation is what the committee will be wanting versus generic praise) and indicates to reviewers that you have nothing to conceal.

Good letters can take time to write, revise, and polish. Give your recommender:

• 4 weeks MINIMUM to write a letter
• Indicate that you will need multiple letters

Asking for a letter – leave yourself options!

Make sure you ask in a way that asks for a strong and positive letter and gives the person you are asking an easy way to say no. For example:

Do you feel you know my work well enough to write me a good recommendation letter?

I know you are very busy, but do you think you could find the time to write me a strong recommendation letter?

Giving an out will save them from having to force through a letter they aren’t excited about, and saves you from receiving a mediocre recommendation letter. It also preserves unhurt feelings on both sides.

Here is a  presentation with tips on getting great letters of recommendation .

Start asking NOW!

Ask for a letter of recommendation as soon as you feel that you have rapport with a recommender, even if you do not need one at that moment. A fresher letter is a better letter, and you will have it in hand when you do need it.

Give thanks

Send a sincere “thank you” note; remember that your recommender took time from their busy life to do you a big favor.

Also, let your reference know when you hear about your application, whether or not you got the position or entry into the program.  This will let the recommender feel like they are participating in your future, and will help them gauge future letters for you and other students.

How to Get a Great Letter of Recommendation

Find the right college for you..

Some colleges will ask for two or three letters of recommendation during the application process. These letters should be written by someone who can describe your skills, accomplishments, and personality.

Why do colleges ask for recommendations? Colleges value recommendations because they:

• Show your talents beyond test scores and grades.
• Describe real-life examples of your personality and character .
• Discuss your relationships in the academic community.

A recommendation letter can help your application stand out, especially when it highlights your skills, accomplishments, and positive attitude toward education.

When Should I Ask for a Recommendation Letter?

Teachers need as much time as possible to complete a recommendation letter. They often have many recommendation letters to write, along with lesson planning and grading.

You should try to get your request to them as soon as possible, but give your references at least a month to complete and submit your letters. The start of your senior year is a good time to begin asking teachers for recommendation letters, especially if you’re applying for early decision. Remember, the more time your teacher has, the more likely they'll write you a thoughtful, detailed letter.

Who Should I Ask to Write a Letter of Recommendation?

It's up to you to find people to write academic letters of recommendation. These tips can help you through the process:

• Read each of your college applications carefully. Schools often ask for letters of rec from a specific person, such as a core subject teacher, specific subject teacher, or school counselor.
• Get advice from teachers, counselors, and family members on who would be best to write your recommendation letters.
• Be sure to select a current teacher or one from your junior year, preferably one who knows you well. Don't choose teachers you had several years ago, since colleges want to know who you are and what you are like now.
• Teachers who know you outside of the classroom are a good choice. Consider a teacher who led a club you were in.
• If requested by the college, you can also think about other adults who know you well. A coach, employer, or club adviser can say a lot about your skills and character. Ask your admissions officer if it okay to submit recommendations beyond what is required by the college.
• Above all else, choose someone who will be enthusiastic about writing your letter.
• If you’re unsure about asking someone in particular, politely ask if he or she feels comfortable recommending you. That’s a good way to avoid letters that sound weak or forced.

How to Be Sure You Get a Glowing Letter of Recommendation

Some teachers write many recommendation letters each year. While teachers don't intend to, their letters can start to seem generic after a while. Make it easy for them to give positive, detailed information about your achievements and your potential by refreshing their memory so that they can share specific details about your school career.

It can also be helpful to provide your teacher with a resume or “brag sheet.” Something you might want to include on your brag sheet or in your discussion with your teacher include:

• Your class participation
• Some of your best work/projects
• What you learned in their class
• Anything they need to discuss for specific work examples

If you need to get a college letter of recommendation from a counselor, be sure to do the following:

• Make an appointment to meet with your counselor if that’s an option, or follow your school’s specific process for receiving a counselor recommendation.
• Discuss your skills, accomplishments, and hobbies. Also, talk about what you want to do in college and beyond.
• If you have low grades or any other issues on your transcript, talk to your counselor about what happened and what you've done to improve.

It's also a good idea to follow up with your teacher or counselor to see if they have any questions on what is listed on the brag sheet or need more information. And don’t forget to say, “Thank you!”

Final Recommendation Tips

Before asking for a letter of recommendation, remember these tips:

• Waive your right to view recommendation letters on your application forms. Admission officers will trust them more if you haven’t seen them.
• Requests for recommendations are often sent via email. Make sure that they have the correct email address of the recommender.
• Let teachers know the deadline for each college and ask them about their preferred turnaround time.
• You can keep track of your letter of recommendation submissions in your application portal. You can politely follow up with your teacher if the deadline is approaching but you see your letter has not been submitted yet.
• Once your letters are complete, write a thank-you note to your references. Once you decide which college to attend, you can also tell your references where you’re going and let them know how much you appreciate their support.

Below are some of students' most-asked questions about how to ask for a college letter of recommendation.

How do I address a recommendation letter?

Be sure to give your teacher or counselor the instructions for how the recommendation will be submitted, but most recommendations are sent through an application portal. Instructions are usually provided to the recommender in the electronic request they receive from the portal.

How do I ask teachers for letters of recommendation?

It can seem daunting to ask a teacher for a recommendation, but remember that your teachers are among your biggest supporters and they want you to succeed.

The best way to ask is to simply ask. Find a time when your teacher isn't busy and ask them directly. Don't go with friends, and try to avoid emailing. Be sure you have any information your teacher may need to write the recommendation and give them plenty of time to complete it.

How should I ask for a letter of recommendation by email?

Try to avoid asking by email if at all possible. However, if you're in an unavoidable situation—for example, you or your teacher changed schools—then emailing is fine. Start by reminding them of who you are, and tell them something specific you liked about their class.

Be sure to include any links they may need. In most cases, once you have asked your teacher or counselor if they are willing to write a letter of recommendation, you will then submit the recommendation request via your application platform, like Common App. Your teacher or counselor will receive the request directly from the portal. You should confirm specific instructions for each institution or scholarship that you need a recommendation for. If the letter has to be sent through the mail, get their mailing address so that you can send them the information plus an addressed and stamped envelope.

How do I politely ask for a letter of recommendation for college?

Some teachers get so many requests for college recommendation letters that they simply can't accept them all. You can often make yourself stand out just by being polite.

Ask your teacher at an appropriate time during the day, and be sure to ask as far in advance as possible. Provide your teacher with anything they may need, like an email address or letter template, work samples, resume, and anything else that can be helpful. When you make it easy on your teacher, they'll be more likely to say yes.

How do I request a letter of recommendation from a principal?

Stop by the school office or send an email requesting a meeting with your principal. Be direct, and ask politely. As your principal probably won't have as much knowledge of your academics, you should prepare a summary and a resume. Don't forget to ask your principal as far in advance of the letter's due date as possible.

How do I ask for a letter of recommendation from someone I don't know well?

While you should always try to choose teachers who know you well for your recommendation letters, sometimes, you have no option. You should only use this option if the school you are applying to requires a letter of recommendation and you have not established a relationship with any teachers or counselors. Otherwise, you should always ask someone who knows you well. When asking someone you don't know well, the best option can often be asking them in person and then telling them more about who you are.

If the first conversation goes well, you can send a follow up email more information and consider requesting another meeting. Since they don't know you well, be sure to have a resume and a summary of your time and accomplishments in their class.

Who should I not ask for a letter of recommendation?

You may be tempted to ask a well-known teacher, but if that teacher doesn't know you well, the letter won't mean a lot. You should also avoid teachers that you had several years ago.

Don't ask a family member or a friend for a recommendation as a college may not take them seriously. You should always follow the guidelines from the colleges you are applying to when choosing who to write your letter of recommendation. Finally, if you have a teacher that doesn't have the best opinion of you, avoid asking them for a recommendation letter.

What should a college letter of recommendation include?

A recommendation letter should feel personal to the school: The teacher should state why you'd be a good fit for that particular college, and should include information that will not be found elsewhere on your application. For example, your letter of recommendation shouldn’t repeat the list of student activities already on your college application. It should include any relevant projects or work you've done. Experiences that relate to your character and academic potential are helpful, too. The teacher should include specific details about their experiences with you. Letters of recommendations can be brief and bullet points are fine! Remember that admissions officers are reading thousands of these letters, so sometimes less is more.

Related Articles

A Guide to Medical School Recommendation Letters

Asking for a letter of recommendation for medical school doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Our guide can help you with your application and references.

What Makes a Great Letter of Recommendation for Medical School?

If you’re applying to medical school, you’ll know that a recommendation letter is one of the requirements. Typically written by a previous tutor or professor, the recommendation letter is designed to present an evaluation of your education and suitability for a career in medicine. In this blog, we look at the reasons behind a recommendation letter and reveal when and how to ask for one. 

The importance of a good recommendation letter for medical school

Your recommendation letters have a considerable part to play in the overall application process for medical school. It is essential to ensure the recommendation letter is written by a person who knows you well and is able to give a good overview of your skills, experience, and accomplishments. For this reason, you must ask the right person to do it. 

As well as knowing you well, the writer should also be enthusiastic about the task at hand. It helps if they’ve written one before and know what to include. The main purpose of a medical school reference letter is to help enhance your application and make you stand out from the competition. These letters are designed to impress you by showing off your personality and accomplishments and highlighting why you deserve a place in the program. 

How many letters of recommendation do you need?

This usually depends on the specific medical school you are applying to, so it’s important to do the appropriate research first. Typically, most schools require at least three different letters — and they’re often quite strict about the numbers. If a school asks for three letters, only submit three, no more. 

There are also different types of medical school letters of recommendation: committee, individual, and letter packet. Your university’s advising committee writes a committee letter representing you as an individual. A letter packet contains multiple letters from your referees and is sent out by your college’s career department — but it does not include a letter from the committee. Individual letters are exactly that — letters written by referees like professors or employers. 

It’s wise to review the application process of each medical school you wish to apply to, as different medical schools will require different letters based on your situation. For example, if you’re a student, you may be required to obtain letters from your teachers, and if you’re employed, you may need to ask your employer to write you a letter. Some also recommend getting more letters than needed if you require a backup later. 

Who should write your letter of recommendation?

This will depend on your current situation and should be outlined in the admission process of your desired medical school. Below, we’ve highlighted some common examples of who would write your letter of recommendation. 

Professors 

Some medical schools will want a letter from your current or previous science professors, mentors, and non-science tutors. These should help you show off a wide variety of skills and experiences. You don’t need to worry about scoring straight A’s in the subjects. If your tutor has seen your ability to work hard, improve, and be dedicated, they can give you a good recommendation. One thing to consider, however, is the number of students that particular professor teaches. If they don’t know you personally, choose someone who does. Your letter should highlight your skills, passion, and drive for your future career. 

Physicians and doctors 

Some medical schools may allow letters of recommendation from a medical professional you have shadowed. Similar to obtaining a letter from your professor, choosing a doctor or physician who knows you well is important — and not just someone you have worked with for an hour or two sporadically. 

If they can highlight how you work — or even better, helped — in a medical setting, that will work in your favor. This includes critical thinking, the ability to make safe decisions quickly , and your interactions with patients. If the medical professional can use real-world examples of your experience, this will likely benefit you. 

Research supervisors

If you’ve been involved in any research projects at school, a research mentor could also be asked to write your recommendation letter. Again, choosing someone who knows you well and has key examples of your strengths is important. The letters that work best to help you stand out will demonstrate your willingness to undertake hours of research and report writing and your ability to solve problems, analyze data, and work individually and as part of a team. 

If you’re no longer a student, your employer may be asked to provide you with a recommendation. What’s more, if you don’t currently work but have undertaken voluntary work, a volunteer supervisor can also write a letter. This is an excellent opportunity to highlight your character strengths and qualities in a work-type setting.  The letter should showcase your leadership capabilities, teamwork attributes, and personal accomplishments. A co-authored letter from multiple individuals can be used if you work  with multiple managers or supervisors. 

When should you ask for a letter of recommendation for medical school?

Wondering how to ask for a letter of recommendation? Typically, it’s requested via email or in person. It’s important not to leave this until the last minute and to consider how long someone might take to write a reference letter. For this reason, you need to start preparing for the application months in advance of the deadline. 

It is beneficial to ask for a recommendation letter after you have finished a certain project or volunteering experience. That way, your skills and achievements will be fresh in the writer’s mind. 

Medical school letter of recommendation requirements

Your letter of recommendation must follow specific formats and adhere to special procedures. These include being written on official letterheads and being signed manually. The letter must also be dated and saved in electronic format.

At MUA , two letters are required — one from a professor and one from a doctor or employer who has supervised you. There are no strict guidelines on how long a letter of recommendation should be, but one or two pages are usually sufficient. You can also find several medical school recommendation letter samples online for guidance. 

Remember, this is your chance to get a place in your dream medical program, so don’t be afraid to ask for a strong recommendation letter. Explain to the writer what this means to you, and keep an eye on the deadline to ensure you deliver your letter quickly. It would help if you were never asked to read the letter, as these are typically considered confidential. Instead, choose someone to write the letter you know will do well. Don’t forget to thank them afterward.

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How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

By UOnline News 03-14-2024

Embarking on the journey of graduate school is exciting, but it can also be challenging. Whether you're pursuing a master's degree or a doctorate, the application process for grad school requires extensive preparation, including securing strong letters of recommendation to make your application stand out.

You probably know recommendation letters are important, but you may be wondering precisely how to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school.

For some applicants, asking for a letter of recommendation for graduate school may be daunting. Some may wonder who should write letters of recommendation for grad school? Perhaps you need to know how to get letters of recommendation when you've been out of school for a while.

No matter your personal situation, we've got you covered!

In this step-by-step guide, we'll explore the essential strategies of how to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school; what should be in your graduate program recommendation letter; how to ask a professor for a letter of recommendation for grad school; and, something many students forget, how to follow-up on your request for a letter of recommendation from a professor.

Understanding the Importance of Letters of Recommendation

First, a quick note on why a compelling letter of recommendation for master's degrees is so critical.

A strong letter of recommendation can mean the difference between a successful application and an unsuccessful one. Not only does it serve as a testament to your academic and professional abilities, it can also provide invaluable insight into your character and, most importantly, your potential for success as a graduate student.

Role in the Application Process: Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in the application process, as they provide a holistic view of your qualifications and capacity to succeed. Admissions committees typically rely on these letters to gauge your abilities, research potential, work ethic, and interpersonal skills, which may not be fully reflected in your transcripts or test scores.

Establishing Credibility: Strong letters from credible sources such as professors, supervisors, or mentors can significantly bolster your application and distinguish you from other candidates.

Demonstrating Fit: Letters of recommendation allow others to attest to your suitability for the specific program or field of study, highlighting your alignment with the program's objectives and culture.

Key Steps: How to Get Letters of Recommendation for Grad School

1. Identify Suitable Recommenders

Choose individuals who can provide a well-rounded and insightful perspective on your capabilities. Ideal recommenders include professors, supervisors, mentors, or professionals who are familiar with your academic work, research projects, or relevant experiences. Consider the relevance and credibility of each recommender based on their expertise, relationship with you, and their standing within your field of study.

Professors: A strong letter of recommendation from a professor for your master's degree application is critical, as they are likely most familiar with your academic performance, especially in relevant courses or research projects. Select individuals who can speak to your intellectual abilities, analytical skills, and potential for advanced study.

Research Advisors: If you have engaged in research projects or thesis work, consider approaching research advisors who can provide insight into your research capabilities and contributions.

Employers/Supervisors: For applicants with work experience, supervisors or employers can offer valuable perspectives on your professional skills, leadership abilities, and interpersonal qualities.

Colleagues/Mentors: Individuals who have worked closely with you in a professional capacity and can vouch for your skills, accomplishments, and character may also serve as effective recommenders.

  2. Establish a Strong Relationship with Potential Recommenders

Start Early: Cultivate meaningful relationships with potential recommenders early in your academic career to ensure that they can provide personalized and compelling endorsements. It's a good idea to attend office hours if you can; participate actively in class discussions; seek mentorship; and engage in any research or extracurricular activities that allow you to showcase your abilities and commitment to your academic or professional pursuits.

Stay Engaged: Maintain regular communication with your recommenders, updating them on your academic and professional achievements, goals, and aspirations. Demonstrating your commitment and enthusiasm can strengthen their willingness to write a compelling letter on your behalf.

Provide Relevant Information: When requesting a letter of recommendation, provide recommenders with pertinent information such as your resume, transcripts, personal statement, and specific instructions or guidelines from the graduate programs you are applying to. This enables them to tailor their letters to highlight your most relevant qualifications and experiences.

3. Craft a Polite and Professional Request

Choose the Right Medium: While in-person requests are ideal, especially for academic recommenders, email is often a convenient and acceptable mode of communication. Ensure your email is professional, concise, and respectful of the recommender's time.

Personalize Your Request: Tailor each request to the individual recommender, reminding them of your interactions or experiences together and expressing why you believe they are well-suited to write a strong letter on your behalf.

Be Clear and Specific: Clearly outline the purpose of your request, including the programs you are applying to, the deadlines for submission, any specific criteria or prompts provided by the programs, and any additional information or materials you are providing for their reference.

Allow Ample Time: Request letters of recommendation well in advance of application deadlines, ideally several months beforehand. This allows recommenders sufficient time to craft thoughtful and detailed letters without feeling rushed or burdened. Be mindful of their schedules and workload, especially during peak times such as midterms, finals, or the end of the semester.

Show Respect: Finally, always approach your potential recommenders with humility, respect, and gratitude. Clearly articulate why you're seeking their support and why you believe they're well-suited to provide a strong endorsement. Provide relevant context, such as the programs or institutions you're applying to, your academic and career goals, and any specific qualities or achievements you'd like them to highlight in their letter.

4. Provide Supporting Materials and Information

Facilitate the letter-writing process by supplying your recommenders with a comprehensive packet of materials, including:

• Your updated resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Transcripts or academic records
• Writing samples, research papers, or relevant projects
• A draft of your personal statement or statement of purpose
• Clear instructions and deadlines for submitting the letter, along with any required forms or formats specified by the institutions

5. Follow Up and Express Gratitude

Follow Up Strategically: If you haven't received a response to your initial request, send a polite follow-up email or schedule a brief follow-up meeting to reiterate your request and confirm their willingness to provide a letter. Be mindful of their time constraints and availability.

Provide Reminders: As the application deadline approaches, send gentle reminders to your recommenders, reiterating the deadline and expressing your appreciation for their support.

Say Thanks: After letters have been submitted, express your sincere gratitude to your recommenders for their time, effort, and support. A handwritten thank-you note or email expressing your appreciation can go a long way in maintaining positive relationships.

Maintain Professional Relationships

Regardless of the outcome of your graduate school applications, continue to nurture your relationships with your recommenders. Keep them updated on your progress, successes, and future endeavors, and be open to providing support or assistance in return.

Handling Difficult Situations

In some cases, you may encounter challenges or obstacles when requesting letters of recommendation, such as a reluctant recommender or a strained relationship. Here are some strategies for navigating such situations:

Approach the conversation with empathy and understanding, acknowledging any concerns or reservations they may have. Provide reassurance and context about the importance of the letter and how it will contribute to your academic or professional aspirations.

If necessary, consider seeking alternative recommenders who can provide equally strong endorsements.

How to Get a Letter of Recommendation When You've Been Out of School

Many of the steps are very similar but with a few additional details to ensure you are identifying the best people to recommend you and that you do everything necessary to ensure they are able to provide you with the letter you are seeking.

Identify Potential Recommenders: Think about individuals who can speak to your skills, work ethic, and character and with whom you worked particularly closely. These could be former employers, supervisors, colleagues, clients, or mentors. Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your skills and accomplishments. Building and maintaining professional relationships over time can make it easier to request letters of recommendation later in life when needed.

Reconnect: Reach out to your potential recommenders. If you haven't been in touch for a while, it's a good idea to send a friendly email or message to catch up and remind them of who you are and the context of your previous relationship.

Provide Context: When you ask for a recommendation, provide context about why you need it and what you're applying for. This helps the recommender tailor their letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences.

Provide Resources: Offer your resume or CV, a summary of the position or opportunity you're applying for, and any other information that can help your recommender write a strong letter.

Be Clear and Polite:  Clearly communicate your request for a recommendation and be respectful of your recommender's time. Ask if they are willing to provide a positive recommendation and if they need any additional information from you.

Follow Up: If your recommender agrees to write the letter, follow up with them to ensure they have everything they need and to thank them for their assistance.

Provide Reminders: If the deadline is approaching and you haven't received the letter yet, send a polite reminder. However, make sure not to pester or pressure your recommender.

Express Gratitude: Once the letter has been submitted, express your gratitude with a thank-you note or email. Let your recommender know that you appreciate their support and assistance.

Requesting letters of recommendation for graduate school can be a challenge, but with careful planning, effective communication, and thoughtful consideration, you can maximize your chances of securing compelling endorsements. By identifying suitable sources, cultivating meaningful connections, and crafting personalized requests, you can secure letters that will enhance your graduate school application.

Cultivate strong relationships with potential recommenders and always provide necessary support and information. Especially important is to express gratitude for their assistance so that you ensure you are conveying respect and professionalism for their part in your graduate school journey.

Remember that letters of recommendation are not just a formality but a valuable opportunity to showcase your strengths, achievements, and potential as a future graduate student. Approach the process with professionalism and respect for the valuable time and expertise of your recommenders.

With diligent preparation and effective communication, you'll be well-positioned to present a compelling case for admission to your desired graduate program!

For more on UOnline's graduate degrees and certificates, visit uonline.miami.edu

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